The Northwest Missouri State women’s basketball team and first-year head coach Michael Smith have released its schedule for the upcoming 2013-14 campaign.

“I think everyone here is excited about the start of the season,” said Smith. “We have a new staff and we are going to bring a new look and a new style to Bearcat basketball. We have a good mix of returners who bring some postseason experience along with a talented group of newcomers. I think our early season games will prepare us for a tough MIAA season.”

Following an exhibition game against Illinois State on Nov. 3, the Bearcatsopen regular season play on Nov. 9 when they take on Quincy University on the road. Northwest will host Truman State for its home opener Nov. 16 during the Winstead-Reeves Classic. The two-day tournament will conclude on Nov. 17 when the Bearcats host William Jewell.

MIAA conference play begins on Nov. 24 as Northwest heads to Pittsburg State to take on the Gorillas.

Bearcat Arena will see a lot of action early in the 2013-14 season, as six of the first eight conference games will be played at home. Three MIAA opponents qualified for last season’s NCAA tournament. The Bearcats will face Emporia State on the road on Jan. 9 and will head to Topeka, Kan., to face Washburn two days later on Jan. 11. Northwest will host Central Missouri on Jan. 18 before closing the regular season in Warrensburg, Mo., on March 1.

Click here to view the entire schedule.

— Northwest Sports Information —