Richmond, Longwood vs. Mason on tap

We bet these players can't wait to get home for the holidays, but it's game time first.


Longwood (2-8) at George Mason (4-5), 7 p.m.

If it seems like yesterday when the Lancers played, that's because it was (loss to IPFW). Meanwhile, the Patriots have had 10 days off, but we suspect they will be able to rid themselves of the rust in a hurry. George Mason owns all five meetings between these teams in the Patriot Center, though Longwood was the victor the last time the teams met in 2008. Coach Jeri Porter has enjoyed the last week and a half of practices, stressing defense, which we suspect will keep the Lancers at bay on Wednesday. George Mason 63, Longwood 52

Richmond (7-4) at Towson (5-4), 7 p.m.
The Spiders have beaten up on their CAA foes this season by an average of 15 points. We don't think the Tigers have the speed and athleticism to keep up with Brittani Shells and Crystal Goring. Shells has been in double figures in eight games and Goring recorded her first double-double of the season against ODU. These are not the same Tigers from a  a year ago. Most notably they graduated Shanae Baker-Brice. Instead Towson has four starters averaging better than 10 ppg. Richmond is playing as well as any team in the state, so we like them here, but be aware that the Tigers have taken two of the last three in this series. Richmond 77, Towson 68