March 15, 2013
BROOKLYN -
For the first time ever, the Fordham Women's Basketball team is just one win away from an Atlantic 10 title. The Rams will look to clinch their first trip to the Big Dance since 1994 when they take on the Hawks of Saint Joseph's University on Saturday night in the Barclays Center at 7 PM in the final game of the 2013 Buick Atlantic 10 Women's Championship.
EARLIER THIS SEASON: The Rams and the Hawks have already met once this year on February 24th, when Coach Gaitley's squad emerged with a win in overtime.
Marah Strickland took the term "career day" to new heights in that game, netting 31 points on 9-17 shooting, including a 9-10 performance from the charity stripe.
In addition to Strickland's outburst, Erin Rooney also put forth a fantastic effort against Fordham's budding rival from the City of Brotherly Love. The New Zealand native poured in 14 points, grabbed nine boards and dished out seven assists in the win.
Also, Samantha Clark chipped in a double-double in the victory, holding her own against an established Saint Joe's front court by registering ten points and 11 rebounds.
SERIES HISTORY: Despite Fordham's win at the end of last month, Fordham's all-time record against Saint Joseph's is not so friendly. The Rams' overtime victory was just the fourth in 38 tries, as the Hawks hold a 34-4 advantage over their neighbors to the Northeast.
Before the win, Fordham had dropped 12 in a row to the Hawks and won only two out of the previous 30 games. But, if you've followed this resilient squad this season, you should know by now that defying one-sided conference histories has become something that's rather pedestrian at this point. The Rams picked up their first ever win against Charlotte back in January, defeated Richmond and GW for only the second time, snapped 17 game losing streaks to both Xavier and Temple and bested La Salle for only the ninth time in a series that dates back to the mid 1980s.
The game will be televised live on ESPN U and can be streamed live on WFUVsports.org. Also, WFUVsports.org will be bringing you an extended pregame show, which will begin streaming at approximately 6:15 PM.
Fordham will be hosting a pregame reception in the area at Buffalo Wild Wings on Flatbush Avenue. Information on the reception can be found by clicking here.
