
Hampton Pirates

Eastern Kentucky Lady Colonels
Highlights
Preview
RICHMOND, Ky. (Interstat) — The Eastern Kentucky Lady Colonels look to build on a strong non-conference finish when they host the Hampton Pirates in a women’s basketball matchup Monday at McBrayer Arena. Eastern Kentucky (8-4) enters the contest having won three of its last four, including an 81-61 road victory at Presbyterian on Dec. 19. The Lady Colonels’ offense is paced by guard Althea Kara Angeles, who is coming off a 13-point, 4-assist performance. She scored 20 points in a narrow 87-83 loss at Arizona on Dec. 10. Hampton (6-5) seeks to rebound from a tough 73-67 overtime loss to Radford on Dec. 18. The Pirates’ recent success has been fueled by forward Aisha Dabo, who erupted for 27 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks in that defeat. Dabo’s scoring surge provides a key counterpoint to a Hampton offense that has been inconsistent at times this season. The game presents a contrast in momentum. Eastern Kentucky has found its rhythm after a challenging stretch that included losses to Louisville, Marshall and Arizona. Hampton, meanwhile, has alternated wins and losses over its past six games, unable to string together consecutive victories since late November. Defensive execution will be critical. The Lady Colonels will aim to contain Dabo inside, while the Pirates must navigate an Eastern Kentucky backcourt, led by Angeles, that facilitates a balanced attack. Kenleigh Woods, who scored 16 against Presbyterian, offers another scoring threat for the home team. This marks the final non-conference tune-up for both squads before each embarks on its conference schedule in the new year. Eastern Kentucky begins ASUN play on Jan. 8, while Hampton opens Coastal Athletic Association action on Jan. 2. Tipoff is set for Monday, Dec. 29, in Richmond.