Riverdale, N.Y.(December 20, 2006)?The Lady Jaspers return to action Thursday when they take on Marquette University of the Big East at the Al McGuire Center in Milwaukee. The Golden Eagles are ranked 21st in the latest AP Poll and 23rd in this week's USA Today Coaches Poll. This is the first of two straight meetings for the Lady Jaspers against a Big East school; on Saturday Manhattan travels to Villanova.
Today's Game: The Lady Jaspers and Marquette meet this evening in a non-conference match-up. Marquette is ranked #21 in the latest AP Poll. Manhattan has lost four of five games since beating Hartford on Nov 24 at Draddy Gym. Marquette has won nine straight games including wins over Auburn and Washington.
Last Time Out: The Lady Jaspers battled gamely against Vermont but ultimately came up short against the Catamounts. Manhattan fell behind by as much as 12 points in the first half, but fought back to get within one point at 54-53 with just over seven minutes remaining. However, Vermont went on 13-7 run over the game's next six minutes to keep Manhattan from taking the lead. The Lady J's fell behind 70-60 after a Catamounts three-pointer, but got to within five with one minute remaining, but that would be as close as Manhattan could get.
On the Horizon: This afternoon's game is Manhattan fourth game of a five game road trip, their longest of the season. Following tonight's game, Manhattan finishes their road trip against another Big East school, Villanova University, before returning to MAAC play at home against Iona in the new year.
Scouting Marquette: The Golden Eagles come in at 10-1, having won nine straight games, are ranked #21 in the latest AP Poll. Marquette has also posted a 78-61 win over Washington, who was ranked #23 at the time, on opening day. The Golden Eagles have three players averaging double figures, led by Kyrstal Ellis at 17.5 points per game. Christina Quaye and Danielle Kamm, averaging 14.3 and 10.4 points are the other two players. Marquette should hold an advantage on the glass, as they hold a +6.8 rebounding margin.
Series History: Today's game is the first ever meeting between the two schools.
History vs. The Big East: Manhattan sports a 1-12 record all-time against Big East schools. Manhattan dropped a 52-46 decision to Providence College back on November 10 at Draddy Gym. Manhattan's lone win over a Big East team came against Syracuse. Manhattan will get a chance to improve on the record in their next game against Villanova.
Follow The Game: Fans can follow the game online with Marquette's radio or live stats by following the link at the top of the page. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. eastern time.
