Stage is set for NCCAA DI Women's Basketball Championship
The upcoming NCCAA DI Women's Basketball National Championship is set to take place from Wednesday, March 18, to Saturday, March 21. The event will be hosted by the College of the Ozarks at Point Lookout, Mo.. Games are scheduled to begin at noon on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, with Friday's games commencing at 3 p.m.
Eight competitive teams will vie for the national title:
At the No. one seed is the host school, College of the Ozarks. Known for their scoring prowess, the host team ranks sixth in the NCCAA in points per game. Key players include Keara Mattingley, who holds the 14th position in field goal percentage, and Zoe Hinze, ranked seventh in three-point shooting.
Ranked No. 2, Bethel University is strong in shooting efficiency, ranking fourth in team field-goal percentage. Players like Jazmyn Smith, who ranks fifth in rebounds, and Isabel Scales, fourth in field goal percentage, are crucial to their success.
At the No. 3 seed, Sterling enters the championship with notable stats, including a third-place ranking in blocked shots. Key players include Kali Briar, ranked 10th in points per game, and McKenna Vogl, who leads the NCCAA in blocked shots, Bailey Young who is sixth in rebounding and Karlee Jacobs who sits at third in steals.
At the No. 4 seed, Houghton stands out with their defense, leading the NCCAA in points allowed. Crysta Lacrosse, known for her three-point shooting, is a player to watch.
Cedarville is ranked No. 5 in the tournament and is known for their tactical gameplay which is highlighted by their assist to turnover ratio. Ella Sellars, ranked 21st in assist/turnover ratio, is a key contributor.
No. 6 seed, Southwestern Christian University is known for their defensive capabilities, they rank seventh in blocked shots. Kaydrin Scott, 11th in points per game, is a standout player.
Asbury, claims the No. 7 seed and excels in steals and three-point shooting. Emily Sizemore, fourth in the NCCAA in points per game, leads the team.
Rounding out the field is Paine College with the No. 8 seed. Paine's aggressive play is evident in their turnover margin and steals. Ayva Tillmon, averaging 19.8 points per game, is a key player.
Games will commence on Wednesday, March 18 at noon with Bethel University taking on Asbury University which will be followed by Sterling College playing Southwestern Christian University at 1:45 p.m. In the 7 p.m. slot, College of the Ozarks will take on Paine College followed by Houghton University playing Cedarville University at 8:45 p.m.
For those unable to attend in person, livestats and livestream options are available. Additional photos from the event will be accessible here. If fans want to attend in person check out the ticketing and brackets on the NCCAA website.
This championship promises a showcase of top-tier women's basketball, with each team bringing its unique strengths to the court. Whether you're a dedicated fan or a newcomer to the sport, the NCCAA DI Women's Basketball National Championship offers an exciting opportunity to witness high-level competition.
Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.
