After a 105-41 beat down of Florida Memorial to open the season, FGCU will now set its sights on a big matchup versus Temple at home in Alico Arena, on Friday (11/12). Below we will briefly break down the matchup.

Temple

Temple is the first big test for the Eagles this season. Last year, the Owls posted an 11-11 record (11-7 in conference), on the way to a loss to Tulane in the AAC Conference Championship. During that season, Temple and FGCU squared off. The Eagles established bird superiority over the Owls, winning 78-69. This year, Temple’s roster is at an interesting place. They are currently constructed with 9 freshman, 1 junior, and 5 Graduate Students. This roster is a wild balance of quality, but inexperienced, youth, and staggering seniority. The Owls return their top 4 scorers from last year. At the same time, those top 4 scorers (Mia Davis, Jasha Clinton, Alexa Williamson, and Emani Mayo) are the only players on the current roster, who logged any minutes for Temple last year. Shantay Taylor, a former starter, rejoins the team after sitting out last year due to injury. Additionally, similar to FGCU, they have brought in some good talent via the transfer portal. Jiselle Thomas led FIU with 17 PPG last year and Jalynn Holmes averaged 13 PPG for Norfolk State. Temple is coached by Tonya Cardoza, who is the University’s all-time winningest coach (238-173) and in her 14th season there. So far this season, Temple is 1-0 after a 73-53 win over St. Francis.

FGCU

FGCU, of course, is also 1-0 on the season and already ranked 28th in the polls. The Eagles return their top 8 scorers, while adding a ton of quality depth this offseason. The team has received national acclaim for the talented roster they have constructed for this season and beyond, including individual recognition for players like TK Morehouse and Kierstan Bell. The expectations are high and each game is a stepping stone to the next part of the mission. Temple is the first test.

Starting 5 Projections

Temple

• Jiselle Thomas
• Mia Davis
• Alexa Williamson
• Jasha Clinton
• Jalynn Holmes

FGCU

• TK Morehouse
• Kierstan Bell
• Kerstie Phills
• Tyra Cox
• Emma List

Outlook / Prediction

As stated, this is the first stepping stone in a tough schedule for FGCU. Their goals are lofty, but attainable and Coach Smesko wants them to be battle tested. This is a winnable game, just like every other game on the schedule. I expect a tough battle and for talent, coaching, and hard work to come together for another FGCU victory.

Prediction: FGCU W

Show Your Support!

Come out to support the Women’s Basketball team Friday (11/12) at Alico Arena. Game starts at 6 PM. It’s a white out so get to the arena and help create an unforgettable atmosphere!

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