Photo creditCharlotte 49ers Athletics
The top-seeded Charlotte Women’s Basketball team survived a scare by hot shooting Rice on Thursday and advanced to the semifinals of the C-USA tournament. So, let’s break down a few keys to the game for the 49ers.
Block out the crowd
This seems to be an odd thing to think about because we naturally think at tournament time, all teams have supporters in the arena. However, none more than North Texas. Being just 40 minutes away from the Ford Center where the tournament is held, the North Texas crowd has been out in full force all week long so far.
The 49er coaching staff doesn’t seem too worried though and feel like their squad can block out the noise and get the job done.
Contain Aly Gamez
In her last outing against Old Dominion, Gamez put up 29 points on an extremely efficient 9-11 from the field. She is a quick guard who can take you off the dribble or pull up for a contested shot in your face.
Whether it be Octavia Jett-Wilson, Jada McMillan or Mikayla Boykin who draws that assignment; can they force Gamez to make quick decisions will be an important factor. She is a guard that if she has too much time, she will make a play.
Get off to a good start
In the last game against Rice, Mikayla Boykin started off the game by stripping the nets, but eventually let the Owls get back into the game to take a substantial lead. This can’t happen against North Texas, because the crowd will be rallying behind them.
Jett-Wilson needs to look to attack early and keep attacking. She appeared a bit reserved in the game yesterday against Rice, so this will be something to watch for.
Gearing for Tip-off
The game can be viewed on Stadium’s streaming service for a small charge unless you are a subscriber. Tip-off is set for 5:30 pm ET.
