Preview: Struggling Valparaiso Faces Daunting Task at No. Murray State MURRAY, Ky. (Interstat) — A matchup of teams at opposite ends of the women’s college basketball spectrum unfolds Friday night when the winless Valparaiso Beacons visit the surging Murray State Racers at the CFSB Center. The game presents a stark contrast in fortunes. Valparaiso (0-24) enters still searching for its first victory of the 2025-26 season, while Murray State (21-3) has established itself as a dominant force, winning nine of its last ten contests. The Racers, coming off a historic 114-78 road rout of Indiana State on Feb. 5, boast one of the nation’s most potent offenses, fueled by guard Halli Poock. The standout senior is averaging 24.1 points over her last seven games, including a 33-point, 8-assist performance in that record-setting win. Her backcourt leadership has been the engine for a team that regularly scores in the 80s and 90s. Valparaiso’s hopes will rest heavily on the shoulders of guard Allia von Schlegell, who has been a bright spot during a difficult campaign. She is coming off a career-high 29 points in a 73-82 loss to Southern Illinois on Feb. 7 and has scored 15 or more in five of her last eight outings. Support from Fiona Connolly (22 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists vs. SIU) and Milana Nenadic (11 points, 12 rebounds) will be essential. However, the Beacons have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 78.2 points per game during their current skid. Containing Poock and a deep Murray State roster that features Keslyn Secrist and Haven Ford presents a monumental challenge. The Racers have not lost at home since Jan. 23. For Valparaiso, the quest for an elusive win becomes no easier in a hostile environment against a ranked opponent. For Murray State, the game represents a critical opportunity to bolster its resume and maintain momentum as it pursues a conference title and high postseason seeding. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. CST Friday, Feb. 13, 2026.