BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – The Gardner-Webb women's basketball team is set to tip off the 2020-21 season Wednesday afternoon against Elon at 4:00 pm inside Paul Porter Arena.
 
The Runnin' Bulldogs, led by third-year head coach Alex Simmons, will look to build upon last year's results, in which GWU finished 18-11 overall and 13-7 in Big South Conference action.  GWU finished last season as arguably the hottest team in the league, winning four straight contests before action was halted due to COVID-19 prior to the start of the Big South tournament.
 
Gardner-Webb will be led by trio of seniors in Alexis Hueston, Gabrielle Caponegro and Nia Lee, along with junior Jhessyka Williams.  Williams led all returners with 10.2 points and 6.0 rebounds per game last season.
 
The 'Dogs have added a talented class of freshmen in Alasia Smith, Emily Gillis, Emma Capps, Cierra Bell and Micahla Funderburk, and will also have redshirt junior Lyrissa Deans available after sitting out last season due to NCAA transfer rules.
 
Elon finished the 2019-20 season with an overall record of 14-16 and 8-10 in the Colonial Athletic Association.  The Phoenix are coached by Shelby, N.C. native Charlotte Smith in her 10^th season.
 
Wednesday's game is slated for a 4:00 pm start time from Paul Porter Arena, with live coverage on ESPN+.