Preview: DePaul Looks to Build on Rare Win at Xavier

CINCINNATI (Interstat) — The DePaul women’s basketball team will try to carry the momentum from a dramatic victory into a tough road test when it visits Xavier in a Big East Conference matchup Tuesday night at Cintas Center.

The Blue Demons (4-14, 1-4 Big East) snapped a five-game losing streak with an 80-77 home win over Georgetown on Saturday. That victory, their first in conference play, was fueled by a standout performance from guard Kate Novik, who posted 19 points and 10 assists.

Novik, who leads DePaul with 14.6 points per game in conference play, will be a focal point. She is averaging 16.0 points, 6.0 assists and 4.0 rebounds over her last three games. Supporting her in the win over the Hoyas were Natiah Nelson (14 points) and Aizhanique Mayo (11 points).

Despite the recent win, DePaul faces a significant challenge. The Blue Demons are 0-8 in true road games this season and have lost those contests by an average of 24.5 points.

The Xavier Musketeers (9-7, 2-3) aim to rebound on their home court after a 67-50 loss at Villanova on Thursday. Xavier had won two of its previous three games prior to that defeat.

The Musketeers are led by guard Mariyah Noel, who is averaging 15.8 points, 6.8 rebounds and 4.0 assists in Big East play. She nearly recorded a triple-double against Villanova, finishing with 16 points, six rebounds and seven assists. Forward Savannah White provides a strong interior presence, coming off a 16-point, five-rebound, four-block performance against the Wildcats.

Xavier has found success at home this season, holding a 6-2 record at Cintas Center. Defense has been a key, as they have held opponents to 60.1 points per game overall.

DePaul holds a 15-13 advantage in the all-time series, but Xavier has won the last three meetings, including a 72-58 victory in Cincinnati last season.

Tuesday’s game tips off at 7 p.m. EST and will be broadcast on the Big East Digital Network.