Portland Pilots Host Sam Houston in WNIT Opener

Portland Pilots Host Sam Houston in WNIT Opener

On March 19, 2026, the Portland Pilots hosted the Sam Houston Bearkats at the Earle A.

orgPortland Pilots
orgSam Houston Bearkats

Chiles Center for the first round of the 2026 WNIT.

eventWNIT

This historic game marked the Pilots' 14th postseason appearance, with head coach Michael Meek continuing his impressive record of securing a postseason bid in every one of his seven seasons.

personMichael Meek

For the Sam Houston Bearkats, this matchup was particularly special as it represented the program's second WNIT appearance and their first postseason trip since 2013.

orgSam Houston Bearkats
eventWNIT

Under coach Ravon Justice, the Bearkats outperformed preseason expectations behind a fierce, defense-heavy identity led by Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year, Fanta Kone.

personRavon Justice
orgConference USA
personFanta Kone

This first-ever meeting between the two schools promised an intense clash of styles, with the victor advancing to face the Lamar Cardinals in the second round of the 48-team tournament.

orgLamar Cardinals
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Comprehension Questions

Which university hosted the first-round WNIT game?

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Correct Choice

University of Portland

How long has Michael Meek led the Portland Pilots to postseason appearances?

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Correct Choice

Seven years

Who was named the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year?

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Correct Choice

Fanta Kone

When was the last time the Sam Houston Bearkats reached the postseason before this game?

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Correct Choice

2013

Which team will the winner of the Portland vs. Sam Houston game face next?

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Correct Choice

Lamar Cardinals

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