The excitement of the NCAA Women’s Tournament is in full swing, with Thursday’s First Four matchups setting the stage for a thrilling journey towards the championship. Teams are fiercely competing for a coveted spot in the first round proper, each with dreams of a Cinderella run and a shot at basketball glory.
Two compelling contests are on the docket for Thursday, pitting teams from across the nation against each other in high-stakes battles. The first game features a clash of styles and conferences as the Washington Huskies, representing the Pac-12 (though soon to be Big Ten), face off against the Columbia Lions from the Ivy League. Later in the evening, the High Point Panthers will test their mettle against the William & Mary Tribe, a team already making waves with an improbable journey to the tournament.
The Washington Huskies arrive in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, boasting a 19-13 record. They concluded their regular season on a positive note, stringing together four consecutive victories. This late-season surge provided them with momentum and confidence as they entered the tournament selection process. Despite playing in the competitive Pac-12, the Huskies showcased their resilience and ability to compete against some of the nation’s top teams. Their balanced attack and defensive tenacity make them a dangerous opponent for any team.
On the other side of the court, the Columbia Lions enter the First Four with an impressive 23-6 record. They dominated the Ivy League for much of the season, showcasing their offensive firepower and disciplined defense. However, a shocking upset in the Ivy League tournament final against Harvard prevented them from securing an automatic bid, leaving their tournament fate in the hands of the selection committee. Despite the disappointing loss, the Lions earned an at-large bid, a testament to their overall body of work and the strength of their resume. They are hungry to prove that they belong in the tournament and are determined to make a deep run.
The stakes are high for both Washington and Columbia, as the winner of their matchup will advance to face the No. 6 seed West Virginia Mountaineers in the first round. A victory would not only validate their season but also provide them with a chance to upset a higher-seeded opponent and further their tournament aspirations. The game is scheduled to be played at Carmichael Arena, a historic venue known for its passionate basketball fans. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, adding to the intensity of the contest.
The second First Four game of the night features the High Point Panthers (21-11) against the William & Mary Tribe (15-18). This matchup presents a stark contrast in team resumes and paths to the tournament. High Point had a solid season, showcasing their ability to score points and control the tempo of games. They are a well-coached team with experienced players who have been in pressure situations before. They will look to use their size and athleticism to gain an advantage over William & Mary.
The William & Mary Tribe, on the other hand, is a Cinderella story in the making. They entered the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) tournament with a losing record but defied all odds by embarking on an improbable run to the championship. They upset higher-seeded opponents, showcasing their grit, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. Their unlikely victory secured them an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, a dream come true for the players and coaches. The Tribe is a true underdog, and they are embracing the role with enthusiasm. They have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
William & Mary’s journey to the tournament is particularly remarkable. Making the Big Dance with a sub-.500 record is a rare feat, highlighting the unpredictable nature of March Madness. Their success in the CAA tournament underscores the importance of peaking at the right time and seizing opportunities when they arise. The Tribe’s story is an inspiration to other teams and fans, demonstrating that anything is possible in college basketball.
The winner of the High Point vs. William & Mary game will face an even greater challenge in the first round, as they will be pitted against the No. 1 seed Texas Longhorns. The Longhorns are one of the favorites to win the national championship, making this a daunting task for either the Panthers or the Tribe. However, both teams will relish the opportunity to compete against one of the best teams in the country and prove that they belong on the national stage. The game will take place in Austin, Texas, giving the Longhorns a significant home-court advantage.
Fans eager to catch the action can tune into ESPN2, which will broadcast both First Four matchups. For those who prefer to stream the games, Fubo is offering a free trial for new subscribers. Angel Gray and Aja Ellison will provide commentary for the Columbia vs. Washington game in Chapel Hill, while Tiffany Greene and Steffi Sorensen will be on the call in Austin for the High Point vs. William & Mary game.
The First Four games are scheduled for 7 p.m. ET and 9 p.m. ET on both Wednesday, March 19 and Thursday, March 20, but are being played at four different venues. Thursday’s games will take place at Carmichael Arena in Chapel Hill, N.C. and the Moody Center in Austin, Texas.
These opening matchups provide a taste of the excitement and drama that the NCAA Women’s Tournament is known for. As teams battle for survival and the chance to advance, fans can expect thrilling games, unexpected upsets, and unforgettable moments. The journey to the Final Four is just beginning, and the First Four games are a crucial first step for these aspiring teams.
