March 11, 2001
Santa Clara (20-7) will head to the Women's National Invitational Tournament for the second straight year, and will face Hawaii in the first round of this year's draw. The Broncos, who have now reached the postseason four consecutive years, will play in Honolulu at the Wahine's Stan Sheriff Center on Thursday, March 15. Game time has not been set.
"We're very excited about continuing our season," head coach Chris Denker said. "It's a testament to our seniors that they've made it to four straight tournaments."
In fact, the selection to the WNIT marks the first time in Bronco history that a class will have advanced to four straight postseasons, as seniors Kristin Franklin, Annie Garrison, Jennifer Glysson and Kim Sorenson will be making the historic appearance. The quartet advanced to the NCAA Tournament in 1998 and '99 in addition to last season's WNIT berth.
Santa Clara won the WNIT in its first appearance back in 1991, defeating Indiana in the championship game. The Broncos are 3-1 all-time at the Invitational, the only loss to Southern California 71-64 in the first round of last year's draw.
Hawaii is 23-7 on the season, reaching the championship match of the Western Athletic Conference Tournament, falling to Texas Christian 66-58. Four Wahine members were named to the All-WAC Team, led by first-team member Crystal Lee, a 5-11 forward. Additionally, April Atuaia was named the league's freshman of the year.
The West Coast Conference's Loyola Marymount and Pepperdine also received invitations.
The winner of the Santa Clara/Hawaii match will play the winner of the Oregon State/Brigham Young contest. The second round match will take place on March 17-19. The quarterfinals will be March 20-22, with the final four teams meeting for the semifinal game March 23-25 and the final on March 27-28. The event involves 32 teams in a single elimination format. All games, including the semifinals and championship, will be hosted by participating schools at their home facility.
Santa Clara WNIT All-time Results
1991
Amarillo Civic Center, Amarillo, Texas
First Round
Santa Clara 81, Notre Dame 65
Semifinals
Santa Clara 58, Kansas 57
Final
Santa Clara 71, Indiana 68
2000
Toso Pavilion, Santa Clara, Calif.
First Round
USC 71, Santa Clara 64