University of Tennessee at Chattanooga women vs. North Carolina State at McKenzie Arena
Time: 7 p.m.
Video/radio: ESPN+/96.1 FM
Likely lineups (with heights and scoring averages in parentheses)
UTC (4-8)
Projected starters: G Lakelyn Bouldin (5-8, 13.3); G Brooke Burns (5-10, 7.3); F Shelbie Davenport (6-0, 7.3); G Molly Melton (5-4, 2.2); F Arianne Whitaker (6-2, 5.2).
Key reserves: G Mya Long (5-9, 5.5); F Eboni Williams (6-0, 7.5).
N.C. STATE (11-0)
Projected starters: F Erika Cassell (6-2, 5.2); G Grace Hunter (5-9, 14.9); G Kiara Leslie (6-0, 14.2); G Aislinn Konig (5-9, 12.4); F D.D. Rogers (6-1, 3.3).
Key reserves: C Elissa Cunane (6-5, 13.0); F Kayla Jones (6-1, 5.6).
MOCS REPORT
UTC has lost six consecutive games, including 67-51 to Belmont on Monday. After a hot start, the Mocs shot just 21 percent in the second half. Even steady leading scorer Bouldin had a rough game with just six points on 2-of-9 shooting. Turnovers have also been a concern, with 16 coming against Belmont. The Mocs forced only six. On a positive note, Williams had another strong outing with 16 points and 10 rebounds.
WOLFPACK REPORT
Former UTC coach Wes Moore returns to lead his 10th-ranked team. Moore spent 15 seasons in Chattanooga and won 358 games while taking the Mocs to 13 postseason appearances. The 11-0 start is the second-best in program history. Defense and rebounding have keyed the start. The Wolfpack have allowed one team to break 70 points and rank third nationally in defensive rebounds allowed and 10th in rebounds per game.
KEY MATCHUP
UTC’s hopes lie in finding a way to rebound with the Wolfpack, who have four players averaging more rebounds per game than Lady Mocs leading rebounder Williams (4.8). An up-tempo game might negate some of the inside edge for the visitors.