Let the games begin

Tomorrow, the Portland State women’s basketball team opens the season by taking on the Washington Huskies in the Stott Center. After posting a win in last week’s exhibition game, the Vikings are looking to post a regular-season win to start their highly anticipated 2009–10 campaign.

History not on Viks’ side:
Portland State has not faced the Huskies in nearly 23 years. Washington leads the series 17-4, and the Viks are 0-7 against them in Portland. A lot has changed in 23 years, though. With the leadership of head coach Sherri Murrell and the depth the Vikings have on the court, the Vikings hope to begin the season with a milestone win.

A look at Washington:
The Pac-10 Huskies posted an 8-22 record last season, and 3-15 in conference. They come into the season off two exhibition wins against Seattle Pacific and Corban College, who they annihilated in a 103-34 blowout.

The Washington lineup features their top shooter, guard-forward Sami Whitcomb, who averaged 12.8 points per game last season. Returning alongside Whitcomb will be Washington’s second and third shooters, guard-forward Kristi Kingma, and forward-center Laura McLellan.

A look at Portland State:
Named to win the Big Sky Conference in both preseason polls, Portland State is coming off its best season in NCAA Division I play. The Viks posted a 23-10 record, went 14-2 in conference and made it to the second round of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament.

Eleven letterwinners return this year, including senior guard Claire Faucher, unanimous First Team All-Big Sky selection. Last year, Faucher posted an impressive 11.2 points per game and heading into this season she needs only 83 assists to become the school’s all-time leader and 86 to lead the Big Sky.

Junior forward Kelli Valentine posted 11.4 points per game last season and is also noted as a strong rebounder. Returners sophomore guard Eryn Jones and junior guard Kelly Marchant join Faucher and Valentine as the four leading scorers on the team.

What: Women’s basketball season opener

Who: Portland State vs. Washington

Where: Stott Center

When: Saturday, 2 p.m.