Weston, Mass.—In a four-way tie for first place in The Commonwealth Coast Conference, Regis College (13-7, 7-1 TCCC) will look to continue its dominant ways to take possession of the top spot outright when it faces Endicott College (14-5, 7-1 TCCC) Saturday, Feb. 6 at 1:00 p.m.
A Rival for the Ages…
Endicott and Regis College faced off last year in the conference quarterfinals. The Pride lost to the Gulls 57-47, naturally making the two teams conference rivals.
The Gulls enter with three players contributing a sizable portion of the Endicott’s points. Ceciley Chisholm leads the way scoring an average 17.3 points per game. Ashley Wright and Ashley Vitale are contributing 15.1 and 10.7 PPG respectively.
Chisholm (3rd) and Wright (6th) are also in the top 10 in scoring within the conference.
The three are also team leaders in rebounds. Chisholm is grabbing 7.7 rebounds per game, Vitale is averaging 5.9, and Wright adds 4.5 RPG.
Defending The Den…
Let us state the obvious; this is a home game for conference home court advantage. With three home games remaining and all against TCCC opponents, every game counts.
Regis is facing three talented players, and a stout and stingy defense by Regis will be a saving grace. Execution will also be important. An all-around effort by the Pride’s leaders and bench will keep this game close.
Jessica Page and Brittany White must be solid shooting from the floor, and aggressive for rebounds. Each must use their strengths to keep Regis within striking distance, or with a solid lead.
Stephanie Crawford and Sarah McNult have to contribute equally as much as White and Page. Crawford has the ability to get to the lane, and should use that ability to drive and score, or pass to an open wing player.
McNult can rebound. She is feisty and will be crucial in limiting Endicott’s second chance opportunities. With three Gulls active on the boards, Regis needs to have five player’s active on the boards.
Nothing must be left for granted. Regis needs to limit its turnovers, while forcing Endicott to make several each time down the court. The Pride must convert transition baskets, and stop Endicott from pressuring Regis into desperation shots.
This will certainly be a battle for both teams. The one that makes the fewest mistakes and has the most active bench should come out with a conference win Saturday.