As the NCAA Tournament heats up, the Minnesota Gophers are set to host the Green Bay Phoenix at Williams Arena this Friday. Let’s dive into what makes Green Bay a formidable opponent as they prepare for this exciting matchup.
Green Bay's Season Snapshot
The Phoenix have been a force in the Horizon League, finishing the season with an impressive 25-8 record. They rode a 12-game winning streak mid-season and have continued their strong form, winning five of their last six games.
Their recent triumph over Youngstown State, clinching the Horizon Conference Tournament with a 57-49 victory, underscores their readiness for the big stage. A notable feather in their cap is a gritty 47-44 win against Kansas State, showcasing their ability to compete with high-caliber teams.
Homecoming for Local Talents
The tournament in Minneapolis brings a special homecoming for several Green Bay players:
- Martin Westin: A 5'8" red-shirt freshman guard from Becker, who recently broke into the rotation.
- Sophie Lahti: A 6'1" red-shirt sophomore forward from Pine City, yet to make her mark this season.
- Ellie Buzzelle: Hailing from Rogers, this 5'8" senior guard contributes off the bench with solid stats, including a 41% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.
- Jenna Guyer: A standout 6'2" fifth-year senior from Centennial High School, she leads the team with 15.1 points and six rebounds per game, shooting an impressive 46% from the field.
Key Players to Watch
Beyond Guyer, the Phoenix boast a strong lineup:
- Meghan Schultz: The 6'4" sophomore center is a key player, averaging 12.5 points with a remarkable 56% shooting accuracy.
- Carley Duffney: This 5th-year senior adds depth to the frontcourt, contributing eight points and 3.5 rebounds per game.
- Maddy Skorupski: A versatile 5'8" senior, Skorupski is a playmaker, averaging 11 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, with a knack for defensive plays.
- Kamy Peppler: A 5'7" senior guard, transferring from Milwaukee, adds 6.5 points per game to the mix.
Team Dynamics
Green Bay’s style is defined by their defensive prowess, holding opponents to an average of 58.6 points per game and a shooting percentage of just 37.2%. Offensively, they average 68.7 points, with a strong presence at the foul line, shooting 75.6%. Their ability to control the boards and force turnovers makes them a tough opponent.
Historical Context
Green Bay has dominated the Horizon League for the past three seasons, marking them as a seasoned contender. In their long-standing rivalry with Minnesota, the Gophers hold a slight edge with a 9-6 record. However, the Phoenix have shown their mettle in past encounters, especially in the late 90s.
As these two teams prepare to clash, fans can expect a thrilling contest at The Barn. With both teams bringing their A-game, this matchup promises to be a highlight of the tournament. Let’s see who rises to the occasion!