Gator Women’s Basketball Preps For Season-Opener In Jacksonville

With Friday quickly approaching, that means the countdown for the return of basketball season has reached single digits. Gator women’s basketball returns to the hardwood on Friday at 5 p.m. to take on the South Alabama. Florida’s hardwood is still under construction, so these Gators will play in Jacksonville, at the Veteran’s Memorial, to open up their season.

Preseason Rank

For the first time since the 2001-02 season, Florida enters the season as a ranked team. The Gators chomped their way to the 20th spot in the AP Preseason Poll behind a handful of Southeastern Conference teams like fourth-ranked South Carolina, tenth-ranked Mississippi State, 13th-ranked Tennessee, and 19th-ranked Kentucky. The SEC is arguably the toughest conference in women’s basketball—the numbers don’t lie.

Florida is coming off of a 22-9 record season, placing fourth in the conference, and a NCAA Tournament appearance.

New-Look Gators?

This time around, the bench is much smaller for the Gators after a handful of seniors left and guard Simone Westbrook suffered an injury. Needless to say, there are a few new editions to the team. However, some things aren’t changing and you can still be on the look out for this program.

The top three scorers from last season (Sophomore Eleanna Christinaki, Senior Haley Lorenzen, and Senior Ronni Williams) will still be around and giving their all every game. Ronni Williams, who averaged 11.1 points per game last season, was named to the preseason First Team All-SEC list. Eleanna Christinaki was named to the preseason All-SEC Second team. The Greek guard averaged 10.4 points per game last season.

When asked about Ronni Williams, Head Coach Amanda Butler couldn’t compare her leadership to any other player she’s ever coached. 

No Home Advantage

The Gators will play their first 12 games on the road, until the renovations of the Exactech Area at the Stephen C. O’Connell center are completed. So, until the calendar shows December 28th, Florida will have to shine on the road. For now, they are focused on South Alabama.

South Alabama Outlook

Last season, Florida faced the Jaguars on their home court and they made for tough competition on the road. Friday’s matchup will feature a full return of South Alabama’s roster and a different ballgame between the Gators and Jaguars.

Amanda Butler emphasizes this is a new season and her Gators aren’t dwelling on the past. 

After a full offseason of team scrimmages, team bonding, and early morning team workouts, Florida is ready to show off their hard work and dedication.