VC graduate Smith plays for title with SPU

A field of 279 women’s basketball teams in NCAA Division II has been whittled to just Washburn (Kan.) and Seattle Pacific University, with one team to be left standing following this afternoon’s national championship game in Hot Springs, Ark.

The No. 3-ranked SPU Falcons (30-2) and No. 2 Lady Blues (34-2) will meet at Summit Arena.

SPU’s roster includes Carli Smith, a Valley Christian High graduate, who had 12 points and 10 rebounds in the Falcons’ semifinal victory over Merrimack (Mass.) on Thursday.

“It’s been a great and memorable experience for the players and myself, one that we’ll never forget,” said SPU coach Gordy Presnell. “Hopefully, we can make more memories (today).”

SPU had never advanced beyond the quarterfinals. The Falcons feature 6-foot-4 Brittney Kroon, who had eight blocked shots on Thursday.