Struggling DePaul Visits Butler in Big East Women’s Basketball Clash

INDIANAPOLIS (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum in the Big East Conference will meet Wednesday when the Butler Bulldogs host the DePaul Blue Demons in women’s basketball at Hinkle Fieldhouse.

DePaul (4-16, 1-6 Big East) enters on a five-game losing streak, most recently falling 86-77 to Seton Hall on Saturday. The Blue Demons’ defense has been a persistent issue, allowing an average of 76.2 points during their current skid.

Butler (8-11, 2-6) has also found conference play difficult, having lost four of its last five. The Bulldogs are coming off a 73-65 loss at Villanova on Sunday despite a standout performance.

The matchup features two of the league’s top individual scorers. DePaul will lean on guard Michelle Ojo, who is coming off a season-high 17 points and five assists in 35 minutes against Seton Hall. Over her last three games, Ojo is averaging 13.7 points.

Butler counters with guard Mallory Miller, who exploded for 25 points, five rebounds and five assists in the loss to Villanova. Miller has scored in double figures in four of her last six outings and leads the Bulldogs in scoring during conference play.

DePaul’s last victory was an 80-77 win over Georgetown on Jan. 10. Butler last won on Jan. 14, defeating Providence 62-52 at home. The Bulldogs will look to capitalize on their home court advantage, where they are 6-4 this season. DePaul is 1-8 in true road games.

Historically, DePaul has dominated the series, but both programs are in rebuilding seasons. The Blue Demons rank near the bottom of the Big East in both scoring offense and defense, while Butler has struggled with consistency, particularly on the offensive end outside of Miller.

Wednesday’s contest is the first of two regular-season meetings between the teams. They will play again in Chicago on Feb. 25.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.