Under the Hawaiian sun, the undefeated Oregon State Beavers (8-0) look to extend their winning streak when they face the scrappy SE Louisiana Lions (4-5) at South Maui Community Park Gymasium on Tuesday, December 19th at 11:59 PM ET. Can the Beavers’ potent offense, led by Raegan Beers’ scoring prowess, overpower the Lions’ home-court advantage and resilient defense?
What it is: Women’s College Basketball
Matchup: Oregon State Beavers vs SE Louisiana Lady Lions
Time: Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 11:59PM
Locations: Seabury Hall School, Makawao, HI
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Oregon State enters this matchup riding a wave of dominance, having trounced Santa Clara in their last outing. Beers spearheads the attack, averaging a conference-high 19.1 points and 12.1 rebounds per game. Their well-oiled offense, averaging a remarkable 79.4 points per game, dwarfs SE Louisiana’s average of 53.3 points allowed. The Beavers boast an impeccable 8-0 record when reaching their average of 53 points, adding to the pressure mounting on the Lions.
Despite the daunting task, SE Louisiana brings its own brand of firepower to the court. Hailey Giaratano, their versatile leader averaging 13.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, could prove a thorn in the Beavers’ side. Playing on their home court, the Lions will seek to energize the crowd and exploit any defensive lapses from Oregon State. Their 4-2 record when scoring over 56 points hints at their potential to upset the undefeated Beavers.
Offensive Explosion vs. Defensive Tenacity: Oregon State’s scoring machine faces SE Louisiana’s stingy defense. Can the Beavers maintain their offensive rhythm against the Lions’ pressure?
Free Throw Battle: Both teams excel at free throws, with SE Louisiana boasting the ninth-best percentage in the Southland and Oregon State connecting at a high rate as well. Who will convert efficiently and turn free throws into crucial points?
Three-Point Threat: Both teams rely on the three-point shot, with Beers and Gardiner for Oregon State and Harvey for SE Louisiana leading the charge. Who will find open looks from beyond the arc and capitalize?
SE Louisiana:
Hailey Giaratano: The Lions’ do-it-all leader, averaging 13.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists.
Cheyanne Daniels: A reliable scorer, contributing 10 points per game.
Taylor Bell: A defensive presence, averaging 1.6 steals per game and shooting 58% from the free throw line.
Oregon State:
Raegan Beers: The Beavers’ scoring engine, averaging 19.1 points and 12.1 rebounds per game.
Kelsey Rees: A key contributor, adding 9.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.
Talia von Oelhoffen: The team’s playmaker, averaging 9.3 points and 4.8 assists per game.
Timea Gardiner: The long-range specialist, connecting on 1.6 three-pointers per game at 41% accuracy.
This matchup promises a captivating encounter between Oregon State’s offensive onslaught and SE Louisiana’s spirited defense. Oregon State’s offensive efficiency and undefeated record make them clear favorites. However, the Lions’ home-court advantage and Giaratano’s leadership shouldn’t be underestimated. Ultimately, the team that executes better offensively, minimizes turnovers, and controls the three-point game will likely emerge victorious in this tropical showdown.
