Hofstra women set for CAA Tournament
Hofstra University Women's Basketball coach, Krists Kilburn Stevesky, at team practice. (November 6, 2009) Credit: Newsday/Patrick E. McCarthy
Hofstra coach Krista Kilburn-Steveskey
Colonial Athletic Association - First round
No.6 Hofstra (18-12, 11-7 CAA) vs. No.11 William & Mary (12-17, 5-13)
Tonight / 7:30 p.m.
On Hofstra: The Pride ended its regular season on a high note, winning eight of its last 11 games. Their strong regular season finish earned them a sixth seed. More importantly, it put them in a position to possibly grab a NIT bid in case they don't win the CAA Tournament. It won't be a cake walk, though. The Pride may have to win two games to stay in the NIT conversation.
Hofstra's one-two punch in the paint of Shante Evans (13.7 ppg, 9.2 reb) and Jess Fuller (9 ppg, 5.5 reb, 3.1 blk) have been a handful for opponents this season. That frontcourt duo is matched by a productive backcourt trio of Sam Brigham, Nicole Capurso and Candice Bellocchio. If the Pride backcourt is shooting the ball well, they will be a tough out, because Evans, a freshman, has been absolutely dominant at times this season.
The Pride split their two regular season matchups with William & Mary. In the most recent game on January 21 Hofstra prevailed, 68-51. Evans had 18 points and 18 rebounds and Sam Brigham added 15 points.
The winner of tonight's game faces third-seeded VCU in a quarterfinal on Friday at 7:30.
Hofstra received some post season notice as Evans was named to the All CAA second-team and All-Rookie team, while Fuller was named to the All-CAA defensive team.
