Preview: Seed Gonzaga Bulldogs vs. Seed Mississippi Rebels in NCAA Women’s Tournament First Round

MINNEAPOLIS (Interstat) — A contrast in momentum will be on display Friday when the seventh-seeded Gonzaga Bulldogs meet the 10th-seeded Mississippi Rebels in a first-round NCAA women’s basketball tournament game at Williams Arena.

Gonzaga (24-9), the visiting team, enters the postseason having won five of its last six games, including a 76-66 victory over Oregon State on March 10 in its most recent outing. The Bulldogs are powered by a high-scoring offense that has averaged 77.2 points during that stretch.

The focal point is guard Lauren Whittaker, who is averaging 21.3 points over her last six contests. She scored 26 points in 27 minutes against Oregon State and dropped 30 in a narrow overtime loss at Portland on Feb. 28. Her backcourt mate, Allie Turner, adds playmaking, coming off a 14-point, five-assist performance.

Mississippi (23-11), the home team designated by the bracket, seeks to reverse a late-season slide. The Rebels have lost four of their last five games, including an 85-68 defeat at Texas on March 7. Their defense, a strength for much of the season, allowed opponents to average 75.8 points in those four losses.

Guard Denim DeShields is Mississippi’s primary offensive threat. She erupted for 20 points and five assists against Texas, but her production has been inconsistent. Support from Cotie McMahon, who also had 20 points against the Longhorns, and post presence Christeen Iwuala will be critical.

The matchup hinges on pace and perimeter execution. Gonzaga’s efficient, guard-oriented attack will test a Mississippi defense that faltered against top-tier competition in the rugged Southeastern Conference. The Rebels must control the tempo and leverage their athleticism to disrupt the Bulldogs’ rhythm.

This game is one of four first-round contests at the Minneapolis site. The winner will advance to face either second-seeded Stanford or 15th-seeded Fairfield in the second round on Sunday.

The over/under for the game is 135.5.

Tip-off is scheduled for approximately 4 p.m. CDT Friday.