By Addie Smith | Sports Editor
The Duquesne women’s basketball team pulled out a narrow 64-58 victory over the Virginia Commonwealth University Rams Friday afternoon and have more on their plate when they face host of the Women’s Atlantic-10 Championship St. Joseph’s University tomorrow afternoon at 2:30 p.m.
The last time the Dukes and Hawks met the Hawks pulled out a 69-68 victory at the A.J. Palumbo Center in overtime. Now, the Dukes will meet the Hawks on their turf in the quarterfinals of the A-10 Championship in an effort to play in Sunday’s nationally televised semifinal.
Keys to a Duquesne victory
- Win the rebounding battle. This is always coach Suzie McConnell-Serio’s go-to in winning a game, along with strong defense. If the Dukes can win the rebound battle, they stand a chance at advancing.
- Jocelyn Floyd. Floyd recorded seven steals in Friday’s contest and leads the nation with 140 steals in total this season. If she maintains her defensive prowess, the Dukes can stay in the game and pull out the win.
What you need to know about St. Joseph’s
- They’re 10-4 at home and the Hagan Arena can get very loud very quickly. The Dukes will have that as a disadvantage.
- Junior guard Erin Shields was named Atlantic-10 Most Improved. Shields can shoot 3-pointers, so Duquesne will need to guard against her shots to remain in the game.