The Western Illinois University Leathernecks women’s basketball team earned a spot in the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Tournament, according to a March 17 announcement. The Leathernecks received a #13 seed and will play against the #4 seed North Carolina Tar Heels in the first round at Carmichael Arena in Chapel Hill on Friday, March 20.
This marks an important achievement for Western Illinois after a successful season and an Ohio Valley Conference championship run. The game provides the Leathernecks with an opportunity to compete on a national stage against one of the top programs in women’s college basketball.
Tickets for the first-round matchup are available through Western Illinois Athletics. Fans are encouraged to purchase early due to limited availability, with tickets delivered digitally via email or text following purchase. Those unable to attend can follow along as the team represents Western Illinois nationally.
According to the official website, the Western Illinois University Leathernecks Women’s Basketball held home games on campus in Macomb, Illinois and competed in the Ohio Valley Conference according to the official website. The program functions as part of intercollegiate athletics at Western Illinois University and adopted its nickname “Leathernecks” to honor the U.S. Marine Corps according to the official website.
The upcoming tournament appearance highlights both recent success and longstanding traditions within Western Illinois University’s athletic department. As they prepare for their matchup against North Carolina, supporters will be watching closely as the Leathernecks take their place among other top teams.
