Mohegan Sun—The Marquette women’s basketball team secured their spot in the Big East semifinals, likely sealing their entry into the NCAA Tournament as well.
In a nail-biting quarterfinal showdown on Saturday afternoon in Uncasville, Connecticut, Marquette edged past Villanova with a final score of 50-48. With this victory, the Golden Eagles, boasting a season record of 23-7, are set to face top-seeded Connecticut (27-5) in the semifinals at 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Notably, Marquette has consistently advanced to the semifinals of the league tournament in all five seasons under the leadership of head coach Megan Duffy.
The win over Villanova proved crucial for Marquette’s postseason aspirations, as a loss would have jeopardized their chances of making it to the NCAA Tournament. However, with this triumph, Marquette is expected to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament, regardless of the outcome against the formidable Huskies.
“I felt the true definition of March Madness,” Marquette head coach Megan Duffy said. “We were so hungry to try and figure out how to beat them Villanova. I can’t tell you how proud I am of my team and their grit.”
Despite facing challenges such as committing 17 turnovers, Marquette emerged victorious. Kenzie Hare’s clutch three-pointer, scored with just over two minutes left on the clock, broke the 45-45 tie and propelled the Golden Eagles into the lead for good.
Leading the charge for Marquette was Liza Karlen, who contributed 13 points and eight rebounds. Skylar Forbes added 12 points, while Hare chipped in with 10, further solidifying Marquette’s triumphant performance.
“It’s a whole different team and season,” Duffy said. “We have to remind our team what makes good basketball and it’s taking care of the ball.”
UP NEXT:
Marquette will play UConn tip-off is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. CST and the game will be streamed on FS1.
