The Air Force women’s basketball team is making history by returning to Clune Arena for their first postseason game, where they will host Utah Valley University for the first round of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT) on March 21, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. local time.
This significant matchup between the Falcons and the Wolverines marks the second meeting between the two teams this season. Previously, Air Force triumphed over Utah Valley with a solid 76-58 victory at home on December 4, 2024. With the Falcons currently holding a record of 18 wins and 14 losses, this game thrillingly puts them on the brink of matching their all-time best record of 19 wins achieved during the 2021-22 season.
Notably, the 2021-22 season was historic for the Air Force women’s basketball team as it was the only time they made it to the postseason prior to this year, making the current campaign even more momentous.
The winner of this first-round game will advance to face the University of Washington, which is another exciting opportunity for both teams. Meanwhile, Army and Navy are also competing within the same tournament, but they sit on the opposite side of the bracket and can only meet if they reach the championship game.
Fans eager to catch the action can do so via ESPN+, which will broadcast the game live, allowing supporters to cheer on their teams from the comfort of their homes or wherever they may be.
Looking closely at the statistics leading up to this postseason clash, the Air Force Falcons have been racking up points at quite the impressive rate. Over their last ten games, they have averaged 68.3 points per game—a notable increase from their season average of 66.5 points. Offensively, the Falcons are sharpening their tools and showing resilience as they prepare for this challenging match.
On defense, the team has allowed 67.3 points per game during their past ten outings, which is slightly more than the 63.5 points per game their opponents have averaged during the 2024-25 season. This slight uptick presents both opportunities and challenges as they face off against Utah Valley.
The Wolverines, boasting their own strong performance with 18 wins and 12 losses this season, have been scoring at 66.9 points per game over their last ten contests, which is marginally above their overall average of 66.0 points. Their defensive record shows them conceding 65.3 points per game during the same stretch, indicating both teams enter this matchup with notable scoring dynamics.
This matchup is not just about statistics but also the passion and determination displayed by both teams. For the Air Force players, stepping back onto Clune Arena holds significant emotional weight, as they strive to mark their place firmly within the postseason narrative.
Fans have shown immense support, and social media buzz around the game hints at the excitement and energy surrounding this event. The atmosphere will surely be electric, with supporters coming out not only to back their team but also to witness a historical moment for the Air Force women’s basketball program.
The players have expressed their eagerness to compete once again on their home court, aiming for not just to win the game but to solidify their legacy within Air Force athletics. "We are ready to take on this challenge and write our own history," one player remarked. This determination indicates the fierce resolve and focus as they enter the WNIT.
By hosting such pivotal matches, the Falcons are not only showcasing their talent but also enhancing their visibility and support within the broader college basketball community. The impact of this game goes beyond just one matchup—it's about building tradition, encouraging future recruits, and inspiring younger athletes who dream of playing at such levels.
Overall, Air Force’s commitment to excellence and their strategic preparations set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling chapter of women's basketball at their institution. With the chance to chase glory, both teams will step onto Clune Arena fueled by passion and the desire to advance within the WNIT.
