The Matchup

The 14-4 UBC Thunderbirds are back at it this weekend as they play host to the 3-17 Regina Cougars at War Memorial Gym on Friday at 6:00 PM (PST) and Saturday at 5:00 PM (PST).

The 'Birds are aiming to host a Canada West quarter-final matchup come playoff time, and are currently neck-in-neck with Calgary for third in the division with three weeks left.



UBCO is hot on their tails and four points back of that final home court advantage berth. UBC earned a 3-0, 3-0 shutout sweep over the Cougars on Halloween weekend in 2016 and will be well rested after a bye weekend.
 

Last Action

Two weeks ago the T-Birds were in tough against a Dinos team that held an identical 13-3 record, but with a series split, the Canada West rivals remained even with 28 points apiece. After UBC won 3-1 in Calgary on night one, it took a lengthy five sets for the Dinos to continue the standings deadlock with a comeback victory over the 'Birds. Regina has dropped four straight decisions - most recently after a 3-0, 3-1 loss to MacEwan on home court.
 

By the Numbers

273 – UBC's block assist total - third best in the country. The T-Birds front line continues to produce with Ciara Hanly and Maggie Li leading the team in blocks.
 
4.07 – Regina's Taylor Ungar leads the Canada West with over 4 digs per set, and has the second most total digs in the division with 273.
 

Players To Watch

Juliana Kaufmanis – (#4, Right Side) – after returning to the lineup after winter break, the veteran forestry major has provided leadership both on and off the court. Kaufmanis averages just under 2 kills per set (1.83).

UBC Stars of the Week: Setter Alessandra Gentile gets a boost from studying marine life in Bamfield https://t.co/PEALu0cBQw

— Steve Ewen (@SteveEwen) February 8, 2017

 
Alessandra Gentile – (#17, Setter) – Gentile has 507 assists on the season and is dangerous from the service line - leading the 'Birds with 36 service aces.
 

Coach's Take

"It was good timing for a bye weekend," says UBC Head Coach Doug Reimer. "I know we're anxious to get back into action for the stretch run before the playoffs. I don't think our focus is much different coming off the five set loss than it would have been if we had won.  We know we need to work on bringing consistent execution for longer periods. There is no doubt that our top-end play is very good and hope this weekend brings that  and the chance to showcase our depth as well."