The Matchup

The undefeated UBC Thunderbirds women's basketball team (6-0) are looking to close out the 2016 portion of their season without a single loss. The only thing standing in their way is the visiting UBCO Heat (2-6), who are 2-1 in their last three games.

The pair of weekend match-ups will take place at UBC's War Memorial Gym on Friday, December 2 at 6:00pm (PT) and Saturday, December 3 at 5:00pm (PT).
 

Last Action

The Thunderbirds narrowly maintained their perfect season record after emerging victorious in double-OT against the Victoria Vikes last weekend. The game was the closest score of UBC's six conference matches this season. 

This is how we feel when we win #Thunderstruck. @UBCWBBall 93 - @uvicvikes 85. #GoBirdsGo pic.twitter.com/xaxlVxhVRj

— UBC Thunderbirds (@ubctbirds) November 27, 2016

The Heat have shown drastic improvements in the last weeks. After opening the season with five consecutive losses, UBCO has found their rhythm. Wins against Mount Royal and Thompson Rivers proved the Heat are an offensively capable team who may pose an unexpected challenge this weekend in Vancouver. 

By the Numbers

75.8 – The 'Birds impressive PPG average. The stat puts them fourth in Canada, and shows just how much of a scoring threat the squad is. 

12 – UBC's aggression is apparent in more than just their point totals. Averaging 12 steals-per-game, the T-Birds have the third most in Canada.
 

Players to Watch

Maddison Penn (G, #15) – With a clutch, 36-point performance last Saturday, Penn was a large part of UBC's win over the Vikes. She leads her team with 21 PPG, and is showing no signs of slowing down.

Record breaker! Maddison Penn of @UBCWBBall 15th free throw of game. Breaks @UBC record (14) held by Lisa Nickel ('93) - Kelsey Blair ('04). pic.twitter.com/e1bc0Flfsj

— UBC Thunderbirds (@ubctbirds) November 27, 2016

Shilpa Khanna (G, #02) – Despite only playing 18-minutes last Friday, Khanna still put up 13 points. The following night she led her team with 36-minutes of playing time, and another double-digit effort. 
 

Coach's Take

UBC head coach Deb Huband is understandably pleased with her team's efforts so far this season, and hopes her team can end the 2016 portion of their season on a high note. 

"We're pretty pleased with how things have gone so far, and the team continues to show growth week to week," said Huband. "We're focused on continuing to get better and finish the first term of strong."



Huband also recognizes the importance of not underestimating an opponent like UBCO.

"We respect all our opponents, and each brings a different challenge. We know we have to go out and play 80-minutes of strong basketball. They have a new coach, and a youthful team. We're looking forward to the challenge."