It’s rematch time for the women’s basketball teams at Johnson C. Smith and Shaw universities.

On Saturday, both schools advanced to the championship round of the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional finals in Edinboro, Pa.

JCSU advanced by defeating West Liberty University 78-72. Hours later, Shaw defeated California (Pa.) 70-63.

Monday’s championship game sets up a rematch between the two teams that battled for the CIAA crown March 5 in Charlotte. Shaw defeated JCSU in that game 56-62.

On the line this time is a trip to the Elite Eight.

Both teams advanced Saturday after trailing early in their respective games. Shaw, the No. 8 seed, rallied from an eight-point, second-half deficit, while JCSU, the No. 2 seed, trailed 40-32 at the half and needed overtime to pull off a win over West Liberty, the No. 3 seed.

With Saturday’s win, the Lady Golden Bulls improved to 26-4 on the season, shattering all previous records for the women’s program. After the game, coach Vanessa Taylor said the comeback was a testament to the team’s determination and accountability.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our team, our university, and our conference,” she said. “These young ladies have become pioneers, and we want to go as far as we can.”

Meanwhile, Shaw head coach Jacques Curtis told the Raleigh News & Observer that with an Elite Eight spot riding on Monday’s rematch, his team will be ready to play.

“…It’s going to take a whole lot to keep us from getting that spot,” he was quoted as saying. “We’re going to do whatever it takes to get that spot.”

The Lady Golden Bulls defeated Shaw twice during the regular season before losing to the Raleigh school in the CIAA championship.

Monday’s game is scheduled for 7 p.m.

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