Xavier’s women’s basketball team is gearing up for an exciting road trip in the BIG EAST, kicking off against Georgetown on Sunday, January 4, at 2 p.m. The Musketeers hope to turn things around after a tough start in the season, currently sitting at 8-6 overall and 1-4 in conference play.
Current State of the Teams
Georgetown Hoyas:
The Hoyas have a record of 8-5 (1-3 in BIG EAST) and were projected to finish seventh in the Preseason Coaches’ Poll. Their leading scorer, Khia Miller, is averaging 10.9 points and has contributed significantly on defense, ranking second in the conference for steals per game.
Xavier Musketeers:
Xavier is hungry for a win, especially being on an eight-game losing streak against Georgetown. The last time they won was on January 28, 2022, when they edged the Hoyas in overtime. This latest matchup takes place in Georgetown, where the Musketeers have struggled historically, with only three wins since joining the BIG EAST in 2013.
Recent Performance
Xavier’s last game saw them fall to Marquette, with Mariyah Noel scoring 22 points, marking her as the standout performer. Despite the loss, Noah’s scoring ability has been impressive this season—she currently ranks fifth in the BIG EAST for points per game.
Fun Fact: Noel’s back-to-back games with 22 points make her the first Musketeers player to achieve this since 2020.
Historical Context
The rivalry between Georgetown and Xavier has evolved over the years. While Georgetown leads the series, Xavier has made strides in recent seasons. The Musketeers are determined to shift the narrative and regain their competitive edge in the BIG EAST.
Future Looking
The upcoming game is pivotal for both teams. A win for Xavier would not only break their losing streak but also serve as their first road victory since February 2022. With a combination of fresh talent and seasoned players, such as Meri Kanerva and Savannah White, the Musketeers have the potential to turn the tide.
This matchup not only sparks interest among fans but also speaks to trends in college basketball where teams often rise and fall, driven by young talent and coaching strategies. As the season progresses, understanding these dynamics can provide deeper insights into what teams can achieve.
For folks looking to catch the game, it will also be available on ESPN+. Enjoy the action!
