The pinnacle of the Division III Women's Basketball season arrives on Thursday, March 20th, as four elite teams converge for the national semifinals. With dreams of a championship title within reach, NYU, Wis.-Stout, Smith, and Wis.-Oshkosh are set to deliver a spectacle of skill, determination, and heart. Fans can catch all the action live on NCAA.com as these teams leave it all on the court.
NYU Violets (vs. Wis.-Stout, 5 p.m.):
NYU defeated Gettysburg College in the Elite 8 to extend its winning streak to 60 games. The NYU Violets have marched through the tournament with a blend of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. Known for their balanced attack and disciplined execution, NYU has showcased their ability to adapt and overcome challenges. Their journey to the semifinals has been marked by key victories, demonstrating their resilience and championship pedigree. NYU has relied on its strong team chemistry, and consistent play from its starters to reach this point. Players of note are Caroline Peper who is coming off a career-high 29 points in the win over Gettysburg Belle Pellecchia and Natalie Bruns. Their ability to play strong defense, and limit opponent scoring has been a key to their success. The Violets are the defending NCAA Tournament Champions and have placed themselves in a great spot to continue their reign.
Wisconsin-Stout Blue Devils (vs. NYU, 5 p.m.):
After their win over Scranton, Wisconsin-Stout is headed to the Final Four for the first time ever in program history. They have emerged as a formidable force, showcasing a blend of grit and determination. Their path to the semifinals has been paved with hard-fought victories, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure. Raegan Sorensen is coming off a matched career-high of 33 points in the Elite 8 victory. Paired with Amanda Giesen’s 22 points, this team knows how to score. Wis-Stout has shown a strong ability to rebound the basketball, and to get second chance points. They are a team that plays with a high motor, and will not give up on any play. Their strong team defense, and ability to create turnovers has played a big role in their tournament run.
Smith Pioneers (vs. Wis.-Oshkosh, 7:30 p.m.):
Smith College is headed to the Final Four for the 3rd consecutive year after defeating Gust. Adolphus by 11 points. Smith College has carved out an impressive tournament run, demonstrating a dynamic style of play. Their ability to execute offensively, and create defensive stops has been a huge part of their success. The Pioneers allowed Gust. Adolphus to score a measly 6 points in the 4th quarter and 0 points in the last 4 minutes of the game. Smith has shown the ability to win games in a variety of ways. Standout players include Ally Landau, Jazmyn Washington, Jane Loo, and Ella Sylvester. They are a well coached team, that has shown the ability to make in game adjustments. Smith has shown the ability to win close games, which is a very important trait in tournament play."
Wis.-Oshkosh Titans (vs. Smith, 7:30 p.m.):
The Titans had a smooth Elite 8 victory against the Yellow Jackets after a 21-9 lead in the first quarter. Wis.-Oshkosh has stormed through the tournament, showcasing a potent blend of athleticism and teamwork. Their journey to the semifinals has been punctuated by key victories, highlighting their ability to rise to the occasion. The Titans are 2-0 in Final Four wins in program history, so be ready for a battle. Wis-Oshkosh has shown a very strong ability to score in transition, and to push the pace of the game. Their ability to create turnovers, and turn them into points has been a huge part of their tournament run. They are a very athletic team, that will look to use that athleticism to their advantage.
As the semifinal matchups approach, the excitement is palpable. Each team has earned their place in this prestigious stage, and the stage is set for a thrilling display of Division III Women's Basketball. With a national championship berth on the line, expect nothing less than an intense and unforgettable evening of basketball. Catch all the action on March 20th at NCAA.com
