CLEVELAND — With a program-record 30 wins, Cleveland State's women's basketball team already knew it was headed to the NCAA Tournament. On Sunday, we learned the journey will begin in Greater Philadelphia.
The Vikings have been slotted as the 13th seed in the 68-team bracket's Greenville 2 Region, and will face 4-seed Villanova Saturday in the first round. Per tourney protocol, the first two rounds will take place at the Wildcats' home arena of Finneran Pavilion.
CSU earned its first "March Madness" bid in 13 years with a 73-61 win over Green Bay in last week's Horizon League Tournament finals. The Vikes boast a deep roster led by Willowick native Destiny Leo, the conference Player of the Year who is averaging 17.7 points per game.
Nova (28-6) finished second in the Big East and will make their 14th tournament appearance. Maddy Siegrist has carried the Wildcats with 28.9 points and 9.3 rebounds per contest, making her a candidate for the prestigious John R. Wooden Award.
Cleveland State has been to the NCAA Tournament twice previously, but has yet to win a game. Villanova has been past the second round just twice, most recently in 2003.
Tipoff time for Saturday's game in Eastern Pennsylvania has not yet been announced.