UAH women’s basketball punches ticket to Elite Eight

HUNTSVILLE – Women’s Basketball continued its historic postseason run Monday night, defeating Eckerd 66-46 at SportsMED Arena in Spragins Hall to advance to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight.

With the victory, the Chargers move on to the Elite Eight for the first time in program history.

UAH faced early resistance from Eckerd, as the Tritons shot 53 percent from the field in the first quarter to take an early lead. However, the Chargers responded in the second quarter behind the strong play of Lili Wilken, who took control offensively and helped UAH build momentum heading into halftime.

Wilken finished the first half with 16 points and ended the night as the game’s leading scorer with 26 points.

She received key support from several teammates throughout the contest. Bella White added 11 points, while Ivey Maddox and Paris Opelt each finished with 10 points.

While the Chargers found their rhythm offensively in the second quarter, it was their defense that ultimately sealed the victory.

UAH held Eckerd to 34 percent shooting from the field and limited the Tritons to just 15 percent shooting from three-point range, as Eckerd connected on only four three-pointers throughout the game. After shooting 53 percent in the opening quarter, the Tritons did not shoot above 36 percent in any remaining quarter.

The Chargers also forced 13 turnovers, highlighted by strong defensive performances across the lineup. Maddox recorded two steals and two blocks, White added three steals, and Wilken also contributed a steal.

With the win, UAH advances to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight, which will be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, beginning March 24 at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse.

The Chargers will learn their opponent once the eight-team field is finalized. In Division II, the bracket is reseeded by committee prior to the Elite Eight, determining the national quarterfinal matchups.