THIBODAUX, La. - The Nicholls State University women's basketball team will make its first appearance in the Preseason WNIT in program history, as the Colonels take on the University Auburn Tigers at 6 p.m. at Auburn Arena.

GAME INFO
Nicholls (0-1) vs. Auburn (1-0)
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 9, 2018
TIPOFF: 6 p.m. central
LOCATION: Auburn, Alabama
LIVE STATS: Sidearm Stats
WATCH: SEC+
WNIT Central

Nicholls was one of 16 teams selected to participate in the WNIT. Coming off its first appearance in the NCAA Tournament, the Colonels are one of two Southland Conference members playing in the 2018 tournament, joined by conference runners up, Stephen F. Austin.

The Colonels opened their season Tuesday at national championship contending Baylor, and suffered a 100-39 loss. The Lady Bears scored the game's first 24 points and Nicholls was never able to make a game of it. Despite the loss, senior Cassidy Barrios had a strong outing, finishing with 20 points a nine rebounds.

Auburn heads into the matchup after opening the year with a 97-48 win over Grambling. Six AU Tigers reached double figures in the victory, led by Janiah McKay and Robyn Benton with 16 points a piece. Auburn shot 53.5 percent a doubled up Grambling on the boards, 53-26.

Friday's game will be the second meeting between the programs. Auburn claimed a 95-48 victory over the Colonels at home in 1999.

ABOUT THE WNIT
Teams are selected for the Preseason WNIT based on their program's expected success for that season, their relevant past, their conference standings, fan base, and geographical location, to name a few criteria. The teams that compete well in the Preseason WNIT typically go on to finish very strong and advance to postseason play.
The event features a three-game guarantee format. All games, including the semifinals and championship, are hosted by participating schools at their home facility. The initial round of the event involves eight sites hosted by participating institutions. The winner's bracket looks identical
to past Preseason tournaments.

UP NEXT
The Colonels' next two games in the WNIT will be determined on Friday's outcome.