The postseason spotlight is shining on the Evangel Lady Valor women’s basketball, and first-year head coach Madi Wallace has her team ready for the moment. With an impressive 27–2 record, the Lady Valor are hosting their opening-round matchup of the NAIA Women’s Basketball National Championship at AG Financial Arena, bringing the national tournament atmosphere straight to Southwest Missouri.

🎧 Hear our full conversation with Coach Madi Wallace here:

Evangel enters the tournament as a #4 seed and will face the #13 seed University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma Drovers women’s basketball. The Drovers are known for their athleticism and defensive complexity, which means the Lady Valor will need discipline and adaptability on both ends of the floor. Still, this Evangel squad has proven all season that it can handle pressure, thanks to a roster that blends experienced seniors with rising young talent.

A new regional hosting format in the NAIA tournament gives top teams the chance to compete on their home court, and that could be a major advantage for Evangel. Playing in front of a supportive Ozarks crowd adds energy to every possession, and the Lady Valor are hoping that home-court atmosphere helps fuel a deep run.

The immediate focus is simple: win the opening games at home and punch a ticket to the Sweet Sixteen in Sioux City, Iowa, where teams will battle for the ultimate prize, the Red Banner. Evangel tips off Friday at 5 PM, with a second-round game scheduled for Saturday at 4 PM if they advance. Tickets are available online through Evangel Athletics or at the door, giving fans a chance to be part of a special postseason moment.