FGCU set to host Loyola Chicago in second round of WNIT play

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — FGCU women’s basketball will open Women’s National Invitation Tournament play on Monday night, hosting Loyola Chicago in the second round after earning a first-round bye.

The postseason appearance is the 18th straight for the Eagles and the first under head coach Raina Harmon, who is in her first season leading the program. FGCU enters the matchup 16-15 overall after finishing 11-7 in ASUN play. Loyola Chicago advanced to face the Eagles after beating Norfolk State 58-54 on Saturday.

FGCU was back on the floor Sunday for its final practice before the matchup. Fifth-year forward Nay Staton told WINK News that she’s thankful she helped the team keep the postseason streak alive.

“I’m grateful to even be a part of this team,” Staton said. “And just knowing the history, when I committed here, I wanted to add to that.”

Staton said the Eagles are embracing the opportunity to keep playing despite a slow start to the season.

“It’s not always about how we start, it’s always about how we finish,” Staton said. “So, for us to continue to play basketball here in March, I’m pretty grateful.”

Coach Harmon said continuing the program’s postseason tradition mattered from the start, but the Eagles are not satisfied with simply being in the field.

“When I took this job, that was something that I knew that we wanted to continue,” Harmon said. “I didn’t know how. I was hoping to get to the NCAA Tournament. But at the end of the day, to be able to play in any postseason tournament, we think is extremely important.”

Harmon said the goal now is to make the most of the opportunity.

“We’re looking to win it,” Harmon said. “Now, we’re not going to look too far in advance to the finals, but at the end of the day, when we step on the floor at any time, whatever it’s for, we’re looking to go 1-0.”

For Staton, the urgency is even greater, knowing each game could be the last of her college career.

“I’m just excited to put another FGCU jersey on and to play with my team one last time,” Staton said.

FGCU and Loyola Chicago will tip off at 7 p.m. Monday at Alico Arena, with the winner advancing in the WNIT bracket.