Image courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications
By Bennett Conlin (This content was originally published in our newsletter)
JMU beats South Florida – The Dukes played solid defense and used 43 combined points from Kamiah Smalls and Jackie Benitez to advance to the third round of the WNIT.
Kamiah is healthy – While she’s still wearing protection on her right hand, Kamiah Smalls is back in the lineup for JMU. The team actually has a chance to advance deep into the WNIT with Smalls healthy.
Kenny Brooks is coming to town – The third round of the WNIT brings former JMU head coach Kenny Brooks and his Virginia Tech Hokies to town for the first time since he accepted the job in Blacksburg. Expect a raucous crowd.
Expectations – Virginia Tech can play. The Hokies are 22-11 and have a handful of close losses to ranked teams. Four Hokies average double figures scoring and Regan Magarity is a dominant post player. She averages a double double. This team was close to making the NCAA Tournament, and the Hokies are no stranger to quality opposition.
Luckily for the Dukes, Smalls is healthy and the home crowd provides a big advantage. The Hokies are just 4-5 on the road this season, and the Convocation Center will be rocking with Brooks back in town. Expect a close game decided in the fourth quarter.
JMU Sports News 