Feb. 12, 2008

Coach Dugan: Weekly Preview

The Florida Atlantic University women's basketball team will go on the road this weekend. FAU faces South Alabama at the Mitchell Center, the venue which will host the 2008 Sun Belt Men's and Women's Basketball Championships, on Saturday at 5 p.m.

The Owls lost twice last week to west division foes. On Wednesday, the Owls were led by Carla Stubbs with 14 points. However, they were unable to overcome 37 turnovers in a 66-44 loss to ULM. The Owls led Arkansas State at halftime on Saturday, but a 12 point effort from Jaimie Givens was not enough as the Lady Indians went on a second half run to defeat the Owls 76-61.

FAU faced the Lady Jags on January 3 at FAU Arena. The Owls shot 54 percent in the second half (17-31) but were outrebounded by South Alabama 47-39 in a 72-62 loss.

"South Alabama came into our building and really outrebounded us here," said head coach Chancellor Dugan. "We've got to go in on Saturday and win the battle of the boards."

South Alabama comes into the week at 16-8, 8-5 in the conference. They're led by guard Shakira Nettles, who averages 10.6 points per game. Nettles led the Jaguars in the earlier meeting with 17 points. The Lady Jags are one of the top defensive teams in the Sun Belt, only giving up 58.8 points per game.

"They're probably one of the most athletic teams in the Sun Belt," said Dugan. "They can all handle the ball, shoot, and take you off the dribble." Saturday's game can be heard on www.fausports.com beginning at 4:45 p.m.