Although it's early in the conference schedule, tonight's game could prove to be very important for the women's basketball team.
Ball State University is tied for second in the Mid-American Conference West Division at 2-1. The Cardinals will play division-leading and preseason favorite Eastern Michigan at 7 p.m. in Worthen Arena.
"It's a good chance for us to put ourselves in a good spot and take care of home court advantage," coach Tracy Roller said. "If we win this game, we're right in the hunt."
Eastern Michigan (9-5, 3-0 MAC) beat Ball State in the quarterfinals of the MAC Tournament last season. Junior Kelsey Corbin said the Cards are looking for revenge.
"I think we all have a bad taste in our mouth from that final game," Corbin said. "It's a new year obviously, but we'd like to settle the score with them."
The Eagles' 3-0 start in the conference is the best in school history. However, all three games came at home and they are just 1-3 on the road this season.
Eastern Michigan is led by senior Ryan Coleman. She ranks second on the school's all-time scoring list (1,535) and has started all 99 games in her career.
"We can't let Coleman get off for big numbers," Roller said. "We've got to do a good job on her. And I feel like a combination of a lot of players on her can do it."
Roller said Corbin, who usually guards the opposing point guard, will likely help guard players on the wing. Tina Bolte and Kiley Jarrett will guard the ball more, allowing the Cards to change defensive schemes.
"We're going to have to make some match-up changes," Corbin said. "We're going to make some adjustments and we'll be fine."
Ball State expects to have center Becca Bajorek available tonight. She has missed every game this season after having hip surgery.
Bajorek started 17 games last season, averaging 6.4 points and 4.8 rebounds. She has dressed the last two games, but didn't see any minutes.
"She's looked great at practices," Roller said. "Unless the training staff just said, 'no way,' she's a go."
The return of Bajorek could bolster an already strong inside lineup. Forward Julie DeMuth is averaging a team-leading 12.3 points and 8.9 rebounds. Center Raechelle Hampton is third on the team in scoring (9.1 ppg) and second in rebounding (5.8 rpg).
Roller said rebounding, tempo and defense will be crucial to match the Eagles.
"They're very versatile," Roller said. "Their guards can post up and their post players can go on the perimeter. They're very good and will be a good challenge for us."
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