After winning back-to-back games in the inaugural Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament, Illinois (16-15) travels to Tulsa, Oklahoma for the quarterfinals of the WBIT on Thursday, March 28 at 6:30 p.m. The opposing Tulsa Golden Hurricanes are 25-9.
A trip to the iconic Hinkie Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is on the line for both programs, with the semi-finals and finals hosted in the historic building. Illinois won a tight game against the Missouri State Lady Bears last Thursday in round one and dominated the Stony Brook Seawolves on Sunday to get to Tulsa.
Led by head coach Shauna Green, the Illini have made the postseason in two consecutive years, which had not been done by the women’s team since 2006-07 and 2007-08. The Stony Brook matchup displayed Illinois’ ability to not only score at a rapid pace but dominate the glass.
Senior forward Kendall Bostic posted a double-double in the first half, finishing the game with 19 points and 17 boards. Senior guard Makira Cook also posted a double-double with 14 points and 10 assists. Illinois never trailed in the matchup, and it should provide confidence for the experienced group as it faces the top team in the American Athletic Conference.
Tulsa played well in both of its respective WBIT outings, crushing the Arkansas Razorbacks 80-62 last Thursday. The Golden Hurricanes topped the Georgetown Hoyas 73-61 on Sunday, allowing just six points in the fourth quarter. Their defense was solid throughout the year, allowing about 66 points per game to opponents.
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Tulsa averaged 71.1 points per game throughout the year but struggled with efficiency from the field overall and from distance. The Golden Hurricanes also gave up more rebounds than they reeled in, which is a huge factor that could help the Illini, especially with how well Bostic has been on the glass.
The Illini average just 12.4 turnovers per game as well, good for No. 14 in the nation. Another stellar performance from junior guard Adalia McKenzie pushed the Illini over the Seawolves, and they’ll be looking for more of the same from her, especially after she reached the 1,000-point mark last week. McKenzie posted a career-high 28 points, her second consecutive game with at least 20 points.
For fans trying to watch the game, there will be a watch party at the State Farm Center with free admission for all ages. The game can also be viewed on ESPN+, and its tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m.
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