Minnesota State women's basketball is gearing up for an exhilarating matchup against UW-Parkside. After a challenging start to the season, the Mavericks are determined to turn things around. In this article, we'll delve into the team's recent struggles, highlight key players to watch, and explore the history between these two teams. Get ready for an action-packed game that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Struggles Out of the Gate
A closer look at the Mavericks' challenging start to the season
The Minnesota State women's basketball team has faced a tough start to the season, losing three consecutive games. Their most recent defeat came at the hands of Minnesota Duluth, ranked No. 25 in the nation. The Mavericks are determined to bounce back and turn their fortunes around.
In their home opener against Minnesota Duluth, the Mavericks put up a strong fight in the first half but struggled to maintain their momentum in the second half. The Bulldogs outscored them by 11 points, leading to a 75-64 loss for Minnesota State.
One of the key factors contributing to their struggles has been their shooting percentages. The team has shot 38% from the field and 21% from beyond the arc in their first six games. On the defensive end, they have allowed their opponents to shoot 41.5% from the field and 35% from three-point range.
Another area of concern for the Mavericks has been their fouls. They have committed a total of 148 personal fouls this season, resulting in their opponents shooting 29 more free throws than them. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the team to get back on track.
Key Players to Watch
Highlighting standout players on the Mavericks' roster
As the Mavericks look to turn their season around, there are several key players to keep an eye on. One of them is senior guard Joey Batt, who recently made her season debut after recovering from an injury. In her return, Batt showcased her scoring ability by leading the team with 19 points and also contributed with four assists, three rebounds, and a steal.
Another player to watch is Hannah Herzig, who leads the team in steals with an impressive average of 3.3 steals per game. Herzig's defensive prowess, combined with Batt's return, adds a significant boost to the Mavericks' defense.
On the offensive end, Natalie Bremer and Destinee Bursch have been leading the scoring charge for the team. Bremer is the team's leading scorer, averaging 13.8 points per game, while Bursch is right behind her with an average of 13.7 points per game. Their contributions will be vital for the Mavericks' success.
History Between the Mavericks and Rangers
Exploring the past matchups between Minnesota State and UW-Parkside
The upcoming matchup between Minnesota State and UW-Parkside adds another chapter to their history. These two teams have faced each other eight times since 1988, with the Mavericks emerging victorious in all eight games.
Last season, the Mavericks secured an 80-71 win against the Rangers, showcasing their dominance in the matchup. As they prepare to face each other once again, both teams will be looking to make their mark and rewrite the history books.
With UW-Parkside coming off a victory against Minnesota Duluth, they will be eager to build on that momentum and challenge the Mavericks. However, Minnesota State's history of success against the Rangers gives them an added advantage and a sense of confidence heading into the game.
