Southeastern Louisiana University Women’s Basketball Team Prepares For WBIT

HAMMOND, La. – The Southeastern Louisiana University women's basketball team is poised to make history as they enter postseason play, competing against No. 1 seed Colorado on March 20, 2025, during the 2025 Women's Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT) at the CU Events Center. This marks the first time the Lady Lions will be participating in the WBIT, following their remarkable season.

The team, boasting an impressive 25-6 overall record and finishing 19-1 in the Southland Conference (SLC), secured their spot in the WBIT by claiming the Southland Conference regular-season title for the first time ever. Southeastern's accomplishment places them alongside noteworthy institutions, including James Madison and UNLV, recognized as automatic qualifiers for the tournament.

"This is truly a historic moment for our program, and we are excited to showcase our talent on such a stage," said head coach. The enthusiasm surrounding the team has been palpable, drawing significant support from fans and the university community. Southeastern's success has not only uplifted the team but has also energized the supporters who have cheered them on throughout the season.

The WBIT, inaugurated by the NCAA last year, includes 32 teams. This year, the top four seeds – Virginia Tech, James Madison, Saint Joseph’s, and Colorado – were the first four teams out of the NCAA Division I women’s basketball tournament and received automatic bids to the WBIT. They will face various teams, including Southeastern Louisiana. The other matchups scheduled for March 20 feature teams like Wyoming against Texas Tech and Florida against UNI, promising competitive action.

Colorado, with its 20-12 record and also finishing 19-1 in the SLC, poses a formidable challenge for the Lady Lions. The excitement for the first-round games on March 20, 2025, will be broadcast live on ESPN+, allowing fans to gather around and support their teams from afar. Southeastern’s game will also be aired on 90.9 The Lion, and live stats will be available on the women's basketball schedule page at www.LionSports.net.

Following the first round, the WBIT will progress with second-round games on March 23, followed by quarterfinals on March 27. The semifinals will take place on March 31 at historic Hinkle Fieldhouse, with the championship game wrapping up the tournament on April 2.

"The selection committee did an excellent job of identifying and selecting such competitive teams for this year's tournament. With 100 NCAA teams experiencing postseason competition, it speaks volumes about the growth of women's basketball," said Barbara Burke, chair of the WBIT committee.

For those wishing to support the Lady Lions, tickets are available through the Southeastern Athletics Ticket Office at (985) 549-5466 or can be explored online at www.LionSports.net/tickets. The university employs mobile ticketing, allowing fans to secure their tickets digitally and maintain convenience.

It’s important for attendees to note the clear bag policy instituted by Southeastern Athletics for all ticketed events. Details about this policy can also be found at www.LionSports.net/clear. With the first postseason game on the horizon, the Lady Lions are primed and ready to impress, marking their esteemed arrival on the national scene as they aim to make the most of their inaugural WBIT experience.

This historic moment for Southeastern Louisiana University women's basketball is not just about the game. It symbolizes the hard work, dedication, and grit of the entire program. Fans and the broader community are enthusiastic as they await the culmination of the season on March 20, with hopes high for what could be the start of something significant.