Generals Gear Up: Washington and Lee Women's Basketball Faces St. Mary's in NCAA Tourney

Excitement Builds for NCAA Tournament Matchup

LEXINGTON, Va. – The atmosphere is electric as the third-ranked Washington and Lee University women's basketball team prepares to kick off the 2026 NCAA Division III Women's Basketball Tournament. Their first opponent, St. Mary's College of Maryland, will take the court against the Generals this Friday at 8 p.m. The Generals, holding an impressive record of 28-0, are not just competing; they're on a mission.

A Legacy of Excellence

This marks the Generals' fifth consecutive appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Impressively, they are hosting the opening weekend for the second time in three years, a testament to their prowess and consistency. Coach and players revel in the task ahead, aiming not only to win but to add another chapter to their growing legacy.

“This team is just different,” said senior captain Mary Schleusner. “We work hard, we support each other, and we're determined to make this season unforgettable.”

Path to the Tournament

Securing a spot in the tournament wasn't easy; Washington and Lee clinched the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) automatic bid after defeating Randolph-Macon 67-56. This victory granted them their third conference title in just four seasons, further solidifying their dominance in the league.

Meanwhile, St. Mary's is riding a different wave—this is their first trip to the NCAA Tournament since 1999, making their return a sweet victory in itself. After defeating Penn State-Abington for the United East title, the Seahawks come into this match with a 24-5 overall record and a commendable 16-game winning streak.

Key Players to Watch

The Generals' success can be largely attributed to their star player, Mary Schleusner. A three-time ODAC Player of the Year and four-time ODAC Defensive Player of the Year, she averages a staggering 21.5 points and 17.0 rebounds per game. Her ability to perform under pressure is unmatched, as she leads Division III in double-doubles with 26 this season.

• Mary Schleusner: 21.5 PPG, 17.0 RPG, leads NCAA in double-doubles
• Quinn McGuinness: Another vital asset, averaging 10.0 points per game and contributes significantly with 86 assists.
• Riley Bryant: A junior powerhouse chipping in 6.4 points and six rebounds per game, proving to be a reliable option.

On the other end, St. Mary's boasts impressive talent. Olivia Liszt, the United East Player of the Year, leads her team with 14.5 points per game and is a defensive nightmare for opponents. With her statistical prowess, she perfectly complements strong support from her teammates Keira Mason and Tramaire Mobray, both of whom also average over 10 points per game.

Defensive Strategies and Matchup Insights

Statistically, the Generals excel not only in scoring but in defensively dominating their opponents, allowing an average of just 52.9 points per game. They rank 15th nationally in field goal defense while showing remarkable aptitude in rebounding with a +13.0 margin, marking them as tough competitors. This team's balance between offense and defense will be critical in their matchup with the Seahawks.

St. Mary's, however, is no slouch. They showcase the second-best bench points in the nation and rank highly in turnovers forced, making them a formidable defensive force as well. With a combination of steals and a high-scoring bench, they present a unique challenge for any opponent.

Looking Ahead

The stakes are high, not just for a tournament victory but for the pride and mythology of each program. As these teams clash, the basketball world will be watching closely. Washington and Lee's pristine record brings immense pressure, but it's matched by St. Mary's heartwarming return to the national stage after decades of absence. Both teams have worked tirelessly to reach this point, embodying the spirit of resilience, competition, and determination.

Friday night will be more than just a game. It's a test of skill, strategy, and spirit—a chance for the Generals to assert their dominance and for St. Mary's to prove that they belong on this big stage—this is NCAA tournament basketball.