Women's Basketball

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will have to carefully manage her emotions for the remainder of the regular season after the WNBA denied the team's appeal to rescind her seventh technical foul. The league's decision leaves Clark just one technical foul away from an automatic one-game suspension , creating an added storyline as the Fever continue one of the WNBA's hottest stretches heading toward the playoffs. While Clark remains one of the league's top performers, another technical foul would not only trigger a suspension but also carry an additional financial penalty under league rules. The ruling comes as Indiana has won four consecutive games and continues climbing the standings behind Clark's outstanding play. Why Clark Received the Technical Foul Clark's latest technical foul occurred during Indiana's 123-88 victory over the Connecticut Sun before the WNBA All-Star break. The Fever guard became involved in a verbal exchange with Connecticut rookie Saniya Rivers during the third quarter. Officials assessed technical fouls to both players after the confrontation. Following the game, Clark explained that Rivers had told her she was "locking her up." Clark responded by pointing to the scoreboard, noting Indiana held a commanding 95-67 lead at the time of the exchange. Although many observers viewed the interaction as routine competitive trash talk, the officials determined both players deserved technical fouls. Fever Appeal Is Unsuccessful Believing the technical foul was unwarranted, the Fever submitted an appeal to the WNBA. Indiana argued that the exchange did not rise to the level of conduct typically resulting in a technical foul, especially given that similar on-court conversations occur throughout the league. However, league officials upheld the original ruling, meaning Clark's seventh technical foul remains on her record. The decision leaves the Fever without further avenues to challenge the call. WNBA Technical Foul Rules Clark now finds herself in dangerous territory under the WNBA's disciplinary system. Current WNBA Technical Foul Penalties First through third technical fouls: $500 fine each Fourth through seventh technical fouls: $1,000 fine each Eighth technical foul: Automatic one-game suspension and $1,500 fine Every two additional technical fouls (10th, 12th, 14th, etc.): Additional one-game suspension With seven technical fouls already assessed this season, Clark must avoid another infraction if she hopes to remain available for every remaining regular-season game. Clark Continues Playing at an MVP Level Despite the disciplinary concern, Clark's production has remained among the league's best. During the game against Connecticut that resulted in her seventh technical foul, she finished with: 27 points 11 assists Five three-pointers She followed that performance with another spectacular outing Tuesday night against the Seattle Storm. Clark vs. Seattle 32 points 7 assists 4 rebounds 9-for-14 shooting Four three-pointers Her recent performances have helped Indiana continue one of its strongest stretches of the season. Fever Building Momentum Indiana has become one of the WNBA's hottest teams entering the final months of the regular season. After opening the year with a 5-5 record , the Fever have found another gear, winning four straight games to improve to 18-10 . The team's balanced offense has played a major role in that turnaround. Alongside Clark, veterans Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston have consistently delivered strong performances, giving Indiana one of the league's most productive offensive trios. With the playoffs approaching, every remaining regular-season game carries increased importance for postseason positioning. Stephanie White Faces New Challenge The league's decision may also influence how head coach Stephanie White manages Clark moving forward. Clark has always played with visible emotion and competitive intensity, traits that have become part of her identity since entering the WNBA. While that passion fuels many of her performances, White and the coaching staff will likely emphasize avoiding unnecessary confrontations that could result in another technical foul. Maintaining Clark's availability will be essential if Indiana hopes to continue its climb in the standings. Next Test Comes Against Portland The Fever return to action Friday with a road game against the Portland Fire . Indiana will attempt to extend its winning streak while Clark enters the contest knowing every interaction with officials and opposing players could carry additional significance. Although the focus remains on winning basketball games, the suspension watch will now accompany Clark throughout every remaining contest until either the regular season concludes or she reaches the technical foul threshold. Balancing Passion With Discipline Clark's competitive fire has become one of the defining characteristics of her game. That emotion has helped establish her as one of the WNBA's biggest stars and a driving force behind Indiana's resurgence. At the same time, it now places her in a delicate position. With the WNBA declining to overturn her seventh technical foul, Clark must strike a careful balance between playing with the intensity that has made her successful and avoiding the next technical that would automatically sideline her for a game. For a Fever team with championship aspirations, keeping its franchise player on the court may be just as important as extending its current winning streak.

The Indiana Fever extended their winning streak Tuesday night, but the celebration was tempered by an injury scare involving one of the franchise's biggest stars. All-Star center Aliyah Boston exited Indiana's 105-95 victory over the Seattle Storm after suffering an apparent right leg injury during the second quarter. While Boston did not return to the game, the Fever expressed optimism afterward, with head coach Stephanie White indicating the decision to hold her out for the remainder of the contest was largely precautionary. The injury comes at a critical point in the season as Indiana continues climbing the WNBA standings and positioning itself for a playoff push. Boston Injured During Second Quarter The injury occurred midway through the second quarter at Climate Pledge Arena. Boston set a screen before rolling toward the basket to receive a pass from Caitlin Clark . As she attempted to move into the lane, she became tangled with Seattle's Flau'jae Johnson , causing her to fall awkwardly to the court. Boston landed directly on her right knee and immediately grabbed her leg in visible pain. Medical personnel quickly rushed onto the floor while players from both teams gathered around the Fever star. After remaining down for several moments, Boston was helped to her feet and slowly made her way to the locker room with assistance from the training staff. The images from the arena immediately raised concerns for one of the WNBA's premier frontcourt players. Fever Take a Conservative Approach Indiana later announced that Boston was questionable to return because of a right lower leg injury . Although she returned to the bench to watch the second half, Boston never re-entered the game. Coach Stephanie White explained afterward that the Fever chose not to risk making the injury worse. "We just want to be very conservative and make sure that she's good to go," White said following the victory. White did not provide a timetable for Boston's return, and the team has not yet released additional details regarding the severity of the injury. Boston Was Off to Another Strong Performance Before leaving the game, Boston continued the productive season that has helped make Indiana one of the WNBA's top teams. She finished with: 11 points 2 rebounds 1 assist 1 steal 10 minutes, 38 seconds played Entering Tuesday night's contest, Boston was averaging: 17.3 points per game 8.5 rebounds per game Her consistent production has earned another All-Star selection and remains one of the biggest reasons for Indiana's success this season. Caitlin Clark Takes Over After Boston exited, Caitlin Clark delivered another standout performance to help secure the victory. Clark scored 32 points while adding seven assists , including an explosive third quarter in which she accounted for 16 of Indiana's 18 points . She finished 9-for-14 from the field , leading the Fever to their fourth consecutive victory. The win also marked another milestone for Indiana's offense. The Fever have now scored 100 or more points in 12 games this season , establishing a new WNBA single-season record. Teammates Step Up in Boston's Absence Indiana's supporting cast helped absorb Boston's absence during the second half. Several players made important contributions, including: Monique Billings: 14 points, 11 rebounds Makayla Timpson: 4 points, 4 rebounds, 1 block Myisha Hines-Allen: 5 points, 4 rebounds White praised the team's response after Boston went down, saying the players rallied around one another and remained focused despite the emotional moment. "Our communication in huddles has been really, really good," White said. "Everybody has to do a little bit more, and our team did that." Sophie Cunningham Expresses Confidence During a halftime interview, teammate Sophie Cunningham spoke about Boston's importance to the team. Cunningham described Boston as a unique player whose value extends beyond statistics, calling her an All-Star and future Hall of Famer while expressing confidence that both Boston and the Fever would be okay. Her comments reflected the confidence teammates have in Boston's recovery while acknowledging the challenge of replacing one of the league's best centers. Fans Find Encouragement After the Game Although Boston never returned to action, postgame scenes gave many Fever supporters reason for optimism. Video shared after the game showed Boston walking without noticeable assistance while celebrating with teammates. She even performed her signature "Bow, Bow, Bow" celebration, prompting encouraging reactions from fans across social media. Many supporters pointed to her ability to walk comfortably as a positive sign, though the Fever have not yet announced whether she will be available for Friday's matchup against the Portland Fire . Fever Continue Climbing the Standings Indiana's victory improved the team's record to 18-10 , extending its winning streak to four games and moving the Fever within striking distance of the upper half of the WNBA standings. The team's balanced offense and improved depth have fueled one of the league's strongest stretches, but Boston's health could become a significant storyline as the regular season enters its final months. For now, the Fever appear encouraged that the injury may not be as serious as initially feared. Still, until additional evaluations are completed, Indiana—and its fans—will be closely monitoring one of the team's most valuable players ahead of another important stretch in the playoff race.

March Madness is heading back to Wichita. The NCAA has officially selected Wichita, Kansas , to host Opening Round games for the 2027 and 2028 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship , marking a significant milestone as the men's tournament expands from 68 to 76 teams beginning in 2027. Wichita will join longtime host Dayton, Ohio , in welcoming teams during the opening days of college basketball's biggest event. The decision reinforces Wichita's reputation as one of the nation's premier college basketball destinations while introducing a new format that accommodates the expanded NCAA Tournament field. NCAA Tournament Expansion Creates New Opportunity The addition of eight teams to the NCAA Tournament required changes to the tournament's opening schedule. Beginning in 2027, both Wichita and Dayton will host three Opening Round games on Tuesday and Wednesday following Selection Sunday . The expanded format will feature 12 automatic qualifiers and 12 at-large teams competing for spots in the traditional 64-team bracket. The NCAA approved tournament expansion earlier this year, prompting a nationwide search for an additional Opening Round host city. Wichita Earns the Bid After reviewing proposals from multiple interested cities, the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Committee selected Wichita as the newest Opening Round site. The recommendation was later approved by the Division I Men's Basketball Oversight Committee, officially awarding Wichita hosting duties for both the 2027 and 2028 tournaments . Wichita State University will serve as the official host in partnership with Visit Wichita , Sedgwick County , and the City of Wichita . Committee Chair Keith Gill cited Wichita's passionate basketball culture and central location as major reasons behind the selection, noting that the city is well-positioned to welcome teams from across the country on short notice after Selection Sunday. INTRUST Bank Arena Returns to the National Stage All Opening Round games will be played at INTRUST Bank Arena , a venue already familiar with NCAA Tournament basketball. The downtown arena previously hosted first- and second-round NCAA Tournament games in 2018 and 2025 , while Wichita's history as an NCAA Tournament host dates back to 1956 . Over the decades, the city has welcomed numerous March Madness contests at Levitt Arena, the Kansas Coliseum, and INTRUST Bank Arena. The NCAA's decision continues Wichita's long tradition as one of college basketball's most respected host cities. Wichita's Basketball Tradition Basketball has been deeply woven into Wichita's identity for generations. The success of Wichita State University , combined with consistently strong attendance at NCAA Tournament events, has helped establish the city as one of the country's premier basketball markets. The Shockers reached the 2013 Final Four , earned a No. 1 seed in the 2014 NCAA Tournament , and built one of the nation's most passionate fan bases. That tradition played a significant role in convincing the NCAA that Wichita could successfully launch the expanded tournament. Local Leaders Celebrate the Announcement The announcement was welcomed by both university and community leaders. Wichita State Director of Athletics Kevin Saal called the selection an honor, emphasizing the city's reputation for supporting college basketball while highlighting the economic impact the tournament will have on Wichita and the surrounding region. INTRUST Bank Arena Regional General Manager A.J. Boleski also expressed excitement about bringing another national championship event to the venue and providing a first-class experience for participating teams and fans. NCAA Senior Vice President of Basketball Dan Gavitt added that Wichita's central location makes it an ideal destination, allowing many participating schools and fan bases to travel efficiently during the tournament's opening days. How the Expanded Opening Round Will Work The new Opening Round format reflects the NCAA's expansion to 76 teams. The six automatic-qualifier games will feature the tournament's lowest-seeded conference champions, while the six at-large matchups will involve the final at-large teams selected to the bracket. The NCAA also plans to consider travel logistics when assigning teams to Opening Round sites, helping reduce unnecessary travel before the first round begins. The first expanded Opening Round will be held March 16–17, 2027 , with Wichita again hosting games March 14–15, 2028 . Economic and National Impact Hosting the Opening Round is expected to bring significant benefits beyond basketball. Thousands of visiting fans, student-athletes, coaches, media members, and NCAA officials will travel to Wichita over consecutive years, creating a substantial economic boost for local hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and businesses. The announcement also strengthens Wichita's national profile as a destination capable of hosting major sporting events, continuing a trend that recently earned the city recognition as one of America's leading sports-event hosts. Looking Ahead to March Madness The expanded NCAA Tournament begins a new era for college basketball. With Wichita joining Dayton as an Opening Round host, the first days of March Madness will now feature games in two basketball-rich communities capable of welcoming teams from across the country. The additional host site provides greater flexibility for the NCAA while creating new opportunities for fans to experience the excitement of the tournament's opening games. As the sport prepares for its first 76-team bracket, Wichita is set to become one of the most important stops on the road to the Final Four. Final Takeaway The NCAA's decision to award Wichita the 2027 and 2028 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship Opening Rounds represents a major milestone for both the city and the tournament itself. Driven by the expansion to a 76-team field, Wichita's rich basketball history, central location, and proven ability to host championship events made it a natural choice to join Dayton in launching March Madness. When the expanded tournament tips off in March 2027, Wichita will once again find itself at the center of college basketball, welcoming teams and fans as the pursuit of a national championship officially begins.

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Marshall capped a historic season with a commanding performance Saturday afternoon, defeating Illinois State 66–41 at the Cam Henderson Center to win the Women’s National Invitation Tournament championship. The Thundering Herd improved to 28–9 on the season and secured the program’s first WNIT title, finishing their postseason run in dominant fashion on their home floor. Illinois State, making its first championship appearance, concluded its season at 24–14 after struggling to match Marshall’s efficiency and early momentum. Explosive First Quarter Sets the Tone Marshall established control immediately, fueled by an extraordinary opening stretch from Timaya Lewis-Eutsey. The senior guard scored the first 11 points for the Thundering Herd, setting the tone with efficient shooting and aggressive play. Illinois State briefly kept pace early, as Grace Nelson scored the team’s first six points to give the Redbirds a short-lived advantage. That momentum quickly shifted as Marshall responded with a scoring surge, building a lead that would continue to grow throughout the quarter. The Thundering Herd closed the opening period on a 10–2 run, finishing with a 21–10 lead. Marshall shot 75 percent from the field in the first quarter, while Illinois State struggled to find consistency, shooting just 27 percent. Marshall Maintains Control Before Halftime Illinois State attempted to respond in the second quarter, opening with a quick 4–0 run to cut the deficit. However, Marshall answered immediately, maintaining its advantage through balanced scoring and steady defensive pressure. The Redbirds briefly reduced the margin to eight points late in the half, but Marshall delivered a key basket just before the buzzer to extend its lead. By halftime, the Thundering Herd held a 31–21 advantage, maintaining firm control of the game. Marshall’s ability to control tempo and capitalize on efficient shooting limited Illinois State’s opportunities to generate momentum heading into the second half. Third-Quarter Run Breaks the Game Open Any hopes of a comeback were quickly erased after the break. Marshall opened the third quarter with a decisive 12–0 run, extending its lead to 43–21 and forcing Illinois State into a difficult position. The Redbirds responded with a short burst, trimming the deficit slightly with back-to-back baskets, but the damage had already been done. Marshall continued to dictate the pace, maintaining its double-digit lead while limiting Illinois State’s offensive rhythm. By the end of the third quarter, the Thundering Herd led 50–34, firmly in control and positioned to close out the game. Fourth Quarter Seals the Championship Marshall wasted no time securing the victory in the final period. The Thundering Herd opened the fourth quarter with an 8–0 run, pushing the lead to 58–34 and eliminating any remaining doubt. Illinois State managed a brief scoring stretch late in the game, but the deficit proved too large to overcome. Marshall maintained composure, controlling possessions and running out the clock to secure the 66–41 win. The final margin reflected Marshall’s dominance across all phases of the game, particularly in shooting efficiency and defensive execution. Lewis-Eutsey Leads Championship Effort Timaya Lewis-Eutsey delivered a standout performance, finishing with 27 points on efficient shooting. She connected on 12 of 17 field-goal attempts and made all three of her three-point shots, leading the Thundering Herd from start to finish. Her early scoring surge provided the foundation for Marshall’s victory, while her consistency throughout the game ensured the Redbirds could not mount a comeback. Marshall also received contributions across its roster, with all players who saw the floor scoring at least one basket. The balanced production reinforced the team’s depth and ability to maintain performance over the course of the game. Illinois State Struggles to Find Rhythm Illinois State entered the championship with momentum but struggled to replicate its offensive success. The Redbirds shot just 29 percent from the field and connected on only three of 17 three-point attempts, limiting their ability to keep pace. Addison Martin led Illinois State with 11 points, while Trista Fayta added nine. Doneelah Washington, the team’s leading scorer throughout the season, was held scoreless, highlighting Marshall’s defensive effectiveness. Despite the loss, Illinois State completed a strong postseason run, reaching the championship game for the first time in program history and finishing with 24 wins for the second consecutive season. Historic Season for Marshall The victory marked a milestone moment for Marshall, completing the most successful season in program history. The Thundering Herd set a program record for wins and finished the tournament with consistent performances built on efficiency and defensive intensity. Marshall’s ability to dominate early in games and maintain control throughout the tournament proved to be the defining factor in its championship run. Final Takeaway Marshall’s 66–41 victory over Illinois State was defined by early dominance, efficient shooting, and sustained defensive pressure. The Thundering Herd built a double-digit lead in the first quarter, extended it with a decisive third-quarter run, and closed the game with authority. Illinois State showed resilience throughout the tournament but was unable to overcome shooting struggles and Marshall’s early momentum in the championship game.  With the victory, Marshall captures its first WNIT title and completes a historic season with a performance that showcased depth, execution, and consistency from start to finish.

VERMILLION, S.D. — Illinois State delivered a composed road performance Wednesday night, defeating South Dakota 67–60 in the WNIT semifinals to secure a spot in the championship game. The Redbirds improved to 24–13 on the season and advanced to the WNIT title game for the first time in program history, while South Dakota saw its season conclude at 26–10 after falling short despite a late comeback attempt on its home floor. Early Back-and-Forth Sets the Tone South Dakota came out with energy in front of its home crowd, establishing early momentum with an 8–0 run to take control in the opening minutes. The Coyotes used strong ball movement and efficient shooting to build a 17–12 lead by the end of the first quarter. Illinois State responded by staying composed and gradually settling into its offensive rhythm. Doneelah Washington played a key role early, helping the Redbirds remain within striking distance as they adjusted to South Dakota’s pace. The Coyotes extended their lead to 20–12 early in the second quarter, creating their largest advantage of the game. Illinois State answered immediately, using a 7–0 run to cut the deficit to one possession and shift momentum. Redbirds Take Control Before Halftime The second quarter turned into a tightly contested stretch, with both teams trading baskets and momentum. Illinois State began to find more consistent scoring opportunities, particularly through its frontcourt, which created mismatches and opened the floor. The Redbirds eventually took the lead late in the half and carried that momentum into the final seconds. A late basket gave Illinois State a 33–31 advantage heading into halftime, completing the turnaround after trailing earlier in the period. Third-Quarter Run Creates Separation Illinois State seized control early in the second half with a decisive scoring run. The Redbirds opened the third quarter with a 6–0 burst, quickly extending their lead and forcing South Dakota to respond. Washington continued to lead the charge, connecting from the perimeter and creating offensive opportunities that allowed Illinois State to build separation. The Redbirds followed with another scoring surge later in the quarter, pushing the lead to double digits. An 8–0 run capped by a three-pointer extended the margin to 50–39 late in the third quarter. Although South Dakota managed a late basket to trim the deficit, Illinois State entered the fourth quarter with a 50–41 lead and clear momentum. South Dakota Rallies but Falls Short South Dakota refused to let the game slip away, mounting a comeback effort in the fourth quarter. The Coyotes increased their defensive intensity and began to find more consistent scoring, cutting into the Redbirds’ lead. A 7–0 run reduced the deficit to single digits, and the home crowd provided energy as South Dakota continued to apply pressure. The Coyotes eventually trimmed the margin to just five points with under three minutes remaining, putting Illinois State under late-game pressure. Despite the surge, Illinois State maintained composure. The Redbirds responded with timely plays on both ends of the floor, preventing South Dakota from fully completing the comeback. Free Throws Seal the Victory The final minutes were defined by execution and discipline. Illinois State relied on its ability to convert at the free-throw line, making key shots to preserve its lead as South Dakota attempted to close the gap. South Dakota had opportunities to cut further into the deficit but was unable to string together enough stops and scoring possessions to take control. Illinois State’s ability to execute under pressure ultimately secured the 67–60 victory and a place in the championship game. Washington Leads Balanced Offensive Effort Doneelah Washington delivered a standout performance, leading Illinois State with 21 points and 11 rebounds to record a double-double. Her ability to impact the game both inside and from the perimeter proved to be a decisive factor. Washington also connected on four three-pointers, providing a scoring boost that helped Illinois State build and maintain its lead throughout the second half. The Redbirds received strong support across the lineup, with Addison Martin and Trista Fayta each contributing 14 points. Bella Finnegan added 10 points, giving Illinois State four players in double figures and reinforcing its balanced offensive approach. Defense and Efficiency Make the Difference Illinois State’s defensive execution played a critical role in the win. The Redbirds disrupted South Dakota’s offensive rhythm, forcing difficult shots and limiting efficient scoring opportunities. The Redbirds also maintained strong offensive efficiency, shooting 49 percent from the field and consistently converting scoring chances throughout the game. South Dakota showed resilience, particularly in the fourth quarter, but struggled with consistency and shot selection against Illinois State’s defensive pressure. South Dakota’s Season Ends on Strong Note South Dakota concluded its season with 26 wins and one of its deepest postseason runs in program history. The Coyotes demonstrated competitiveness and resilience throughout the WNIT, including a strong effort in the semifinal matchup. Molly Joyce led South Dakota with 16 points, while Angelina Robles added 14. The team’s late comeback effort highlighted its ability to compete under pressure, even as the early deficit proved too difficult to overcome. Final Takeaway Illinois State’s 67–60 victory over South Dakota was defined by composure, balanced scoring, and second-half execution. The Redbirds overcame an early deficit, built separation in the third quarter, and held off a late rally to secure the win. South Dakota showed resilience and pushed the game to the final minutes, but Illinois State’s efficiency and ability to execute in key moments proved decisive. With the victory, Illinois State advances to the WNIT Championship for the first time in program history, setting up a final matchup against Marshall with a postseason title on the line. 

JONESBORO, Ark. — Marshall delivered a composed and complete performance Wednesday night, defeating Arkansas State 69–62 in the WNIT semifinals to secure a spot in the championship game. The Thundering Herd improved to 28–9 on the season and advanced to the WNIT title game for the first time in program history, while Arkansas State saw its impressive season conclude at 27–10 after falling just short in a competitive semifinal matchup. Marshall Sets the Tone Early Marshall established control from the opening minutes, using defensive pressure and efficient scoring to take an early lead. Arkansas State struggled to find its rhythm early, going nearly five minutes without a field goal as Marshall built a double-digit advantage. The Red Wolves managed just six points in the first quarter, while Marshall’s defense forced multiple turnovers and disrupted offensive flow. The early deficit placed Arkansas State in a position where it had to play from behind for the remainder of the game. Marshall carried that momentum into the second quarter, maintaining its lead through consistent execution and balanced scoring. Arkansas State Responds Before Halftime Arkansas State began to settle in during the second quarter, improving its shot selection and finding success from the perimeter. Back-to-back three-pointers helped cut into the deficit, briefly bringing the Red Wolves within striking distance. The teams traded baskets over the final minutes of the half, but Marshall maintained its composure and continued to control the pace. By halftime, the Thundering Herd held a 32–25 lead, reflecting their early dominance and defensive effectiveness. Second Half Becomes Back-and-Forth Battle Arkansas State showed resilience in the second half, gradually chipping away at the deficit and increasing its defensive intensity. The Red Wolves found more consistent scoring, particularly from Crislyn Rose and Bella Weary, who combined to provide a significant offensive boost. Weary delivered a strong performance off the bench, finishing with 19 points and seven rebounds, while Rose added 16 points and six assists. Their production helped Arkansas State stay competitive and apply pressure throughout the second half. Marshall, however, continued to respond to every run. The Thundering Herd maintained control by executing in key moments and limiting Arkansas State’s ability to fully seize momentum. Fourth Quarter Decides the Outcome The game tightened significantly in the fourth quarter, with Arkansas State cutting the deficit to just one point at 55–54 with five minutes remaining. The Red Wolves appeared poised to complete the comeback and take control for the first time. Marshall responded with its most decisive stretch of the game. A key three-pointer sparked a 9–0 run that pushed the Thundering Herd’s lead back to double digits, effectively halting Arkansas State’s momentum. The run proved to be the turning point, as Marshall regained control and dictated the final minutes. Arkansas State was forced to foul late in an attempt to extend the game, but Marshall converted key free throws and maintained possession to secure the victory. Lewis-Eutsey Leads the Way Timaya Lewis-Eutsey delivered a standout performance for Marshall, leading all scorers with 31 points. She shot efficiently from the field and provided consistent offense throughout the game, particularly during key stretches when Arkansas State threatened to close the gap. Her ability to create scoring opportunities and convert under pressure played a major role in Marshall’s success. The performance marked her seventh 30-point game of the season, highlighting her importance as the team’s primary offensive leader. Marshall also received contributions across the roster, with additional scoring support and strong rebounding helping maintain balance. Defense and Turnovers Prove Critical Marshall’s defense was a defining factor in the win. The Thundering Herd forced 21 turnovers and converted those opportunities into 23 points, creating a significant advantage in the possession battle. The defensive effort also limited Arkansas State’s efficiency from beyond the arc, holding the Red Wolves to just 26 percent shooting from three-point range. Additionally, Marshall’s ability to maintain defensive intensity throughout the game prevented Arkansas State from sustaining long scoring runs. Arkansas State’s Season Comes to an End Arkansas State delivered a strong performance despite the loss, showing resilience after falling behind early. The Red Wolves fought back in the second half and nearly completed a comeback in the final minutes. Weary and Rose led the team’s offensive effort, while the team’s improved play in the second half demonstrated its ability to compete under pressure. The loss concluded a successful season that included 27 wins and a deep postseason run. Marshall Advances to Historic Championship Appearance With the victory, Marshall advanced to the WNIT championship game for the first time in program history. The Thundering Herd also set a single-season record for wins, continuing one of the most successful seasons the program has experienced. Marshall will host Illinois State in the championship matchup, carrying momentum from a strong postseason run that has been defined by defense, balanced scoring, and consistent execution. Final Takeaway Marshall’s 69–62 victory over Arkansas State was defined by early control, defensive pressure, and timely execution in the fourth quarter. The Thundering Herd built an early lead, withstood a second-half comeback, and responded with a decisive run to secure the win. Arkansas State showed resilience and nearly completed a comeback, but Marshall’s defense and late-game execution proved too much to overcome. With the victory, Marshall advances to the WNIT championship, positioning itself for a historic opportunity to capture its first postseason title.

WICHITA, Kan. — Columbia completed a dominant postseason run Wednesday night, defeating BYU 81–64 at Charles Koch Arena to win the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament championship. The fourth-seeded Lions finished the tournament in commanding fashion, controlling the game from start to finish and securing the program’s postseason title behind balanced scoring and consistent execution. BYU, the tournament’s top seed, saw its strong run end after an impressive late push fell short. Columbia Sets the Tone Early Columbia established control in the opening quarter, using defensive pressure and efficient shot-making to create early separation. After a brief back-and-forth start, the Lions delivered a 10–2 run that shifted momentum and forced BYU into a difficult offensive rhythm. The Cougars struggled to convert early opportunities, shooting inefficiently and missing several open looks. Columbia capitalized by pushing the pace and generating transition opportunities, building a 19–10 lead by the end of the first quarter. That early advantage set the foundation for the rest of the game, as Columbia maintained control and dictated tempo. Second Quarter Expands the Lead The Lions extended their lead in the second quarter with a combination of perimeter shooting and interior scoring. Riley Weiss and Mia Broom led the charge, combining for a scoring surge that stretched the margin to double digits. Columbia’s offensive efficiency remained steady, while its defense continued to disrupt BYU’s rhythm. The Cougars attempted to respond with improved ball movement and perimeter shooting, but Columbia answered each push with timely baskets. By halftime, the Lions held a 42–24 lead, reflecting their dominance on both ends of the floor. BYU Shows Fight, But Columbia Maintains Control BYU showed increased energy in the second half, focusing on defensive pressure and transition opportunities to cut into the deficit. The Cougars forced turnovers and generated second-chance points, briefly gaining momentum during stretches of the third quarter. However, Columbia responded consistently, using disciplined offense and strong execution to maintain its advantage. The Lions opened the third quarter with a 7–0 run, pushing the lead beyond 20 points and preventing BYU from making a sustained comeback. Columbia’s ability to control key possessions allowed it to carry a 60–37 lead into the fourth quarter, keeping the game firmly in its favor. Fourth-Quarter Surge Falls Short for BYU BYU mounted its strongest push in the final period, delivering a late surge fueled by transition scoring and aggressive play in the paint. The Cougars went on a 13–0 run, cutting the deficit significantly and creating brief momentum. During that stretch, BYU capitalized on fast-break opportunities and second-chance points, trimming the margin to single digits with under a minute remaining. Despite the surge, the early deficit proved too large to overcome. Columbia remained composed, responding with free throws and interior scoring to halt the momentum and secure the victory. Balanced Scoring Leads Columbia Columbia’s success was driven by balanced production across its lineup. Mia Broom led all scorers with 23 points, delivering efficient shooting and consistent scoring throughout the game. Riley Weiss added 20 points, including a strong first-half performance that helped establish the early lead. Susie Rafiu contributed 12 points and eight rebounds, while Nasi Simmons added 10 points, giving the Lions four players in double figures. The balanced scoring prevented BYU from focusing its defensive efforts on a single player and allowed Columbia to maintain offensive consistency. BYU’s Effort Led by Gibb and Hamlin BYU received strong performances from Delaney Gibb and Olivia Hamlin, who led the Cougars offensively. Gibb finished with 24 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while Hamlin added 17 points. The Cougars also found success in physical areas, finishing with 46 rebounds and generating 20 second-chance points. BYU outscored Columbia in the paint and created multiple fast-break opportunities, particularly during the fourth quarter. Despite those efforts, BYU struggled with perimeter shooting, connecting on just four three-pointers and limiting its ability to keep pace with Columbia’s scoring output. Columbia’s Consistency Proves Decisive Columbia’s ability to maintain control throughout the game proved to be the difference. The Lions never trailed and built leads through consistent execution in both halves. Their defense limited BYU’s scoring efficiency early, while their offense capitalized on opportunities to create separation. Even when BYU made its late push, Columbia responded with composure and secured the win through disciplined play. The victory capped a strong tournament run in which Columbia controlled nearly every game and demonstrated its ability to perform under pressure. Final Takeaway Columbia’s 81–64 win over BYU was defined by early dominance, balanced scoring, and steady execution. The Lions built a substantial first-half lead, maintained control through the third quarter, and held off a late BYU surge to secure the championship. BYU showed resilience and produced a strong fourth-quarter effort, but the early deficit and shooting struggles proved too difficult to overcome. With the victory, Columbia claims the WBIT title and concludes its postseason run with momentum, while BYU wraps up a successful season that included a deep tournament run and strong overall performance.