UC Ranked #25

UC Women's Basketball Team Ranked #25 in the Country
January 19, 2005

     The University of Charleston entered into the national spotlight by grabbing the #25 spot in the latest USA Today/ESPN/ WBCA Division II Top 25 Coaches' Poll released on January 18.  Despite an early season 15 point win over Bentley, who has been ranked as high as #6 in the national polls, UC had not been able to gain any recognition or respect on the national scene until now.  At 14-2, the Golden Eagles are currently undefeated in the WVIAC with an impressive record of 7-0, but are currently sitting in third place behind Fairmont State, who is ranked #14 in the nation, and Wheeling Jesuit who are both 5-0.  However, UC is less than nine points behind Fairmont State in the power ratings.  UC will travel to Fairmont on Feb. 10 in a highly anticipated WVIAC showdown, which will play a significant role in helping to crown the WVIAC Regular Season Champions. 

     UC will take on WVIAC foes Davis & Elkins and Shepherd on the road before returning to Eddie King Gym on Jan. 27 to face Glenville State.  Perennial WVIAC power, Glenville State dropped out of the top 25 in the latest poll for the first time since February 2002 and currently has two WVIAC losses at the hands of Fairmont State and Wheeling Jesuit.  All of Glenville's losses have been to regionally ranked opponents.  The Pioneers rank second nationally in field goal percentage defense, holding their opponents to a mere 32% shooting effort from the floor.

     Led by Lisa Lee, Courtney Thomas, and Laura Kinsler, who are currently averaging in double figures in scoring, UC's offense is scoring close to 77 points per game and are outscoring their opponents by more than 22 points per game.  UC's margin of victory over WVIAC opponents is more than 31 points per game.  Rachel Pike, Emily Jones, Mandy Ebel, and Erica McElroy are also contributing to the team's success by providing much needed versatility and depth.   

     With the heart of their  WVIAC schedule being played January-February, UC will have to be consistent in play each and every night.  The Eagles have yet to face Wheeling Jesuit, Fairmont, or Glenville State.  The strength and depth of the WVIAC can be merciless.  Any team can step up and knock off a higher ranked team on any given night.  It is this type of parity that makes March Madness.