CHICAGO (March 15, 2021) – For the first time in program history, the Loyola University Chicago women's basketball program will play in a postseason tournament, as the Ramblers accepted a bid to the Women's Basketball Invitational (WBI) on Monday.
 
"We are beyond thrilled to be included in the field for the 2021 WBI," Loyola head coach Kate Achter said.  "This season has tested our team in many ways, but their sacrifice, hard work, and commitment to each other has paid off. 
 
Set to be the fifth Missouri Valley Conference institution to appear in the event, Loyola will be joined in the eight-team field by Abilene Christian, Cleveland State, Florida International, Longwood, Manhattan, Northern Arizona, and Portland.
 
Kentucky State University will play host to the three-day event inside the William Exum Center in Frankfort, Kent., March 19-21.  Quarterfinal-round play will begin on 11 a.m. (CT) on Friday, March 19, with the championship game slated for 6:30 p.m. (CT) on Sunday, March 21.  Fan attendance will not be permitted, but video coverage will be provided for all 12 games of the event.
 
"For the first time in program history, we have been selected to postseason play," Achter concluded.  "It is such an amazing honor to receive after one of the most challenging years in college basketball.  I am so proud of my team and staff.  Our team will be ready to compete this weekend and we are very much looking forward to heading to Kentucky!"
 
Loyola closed the 2020-21 regular season at 11-13 overall (8-10 MVC).  Led by First Team All-MVC selection Allison Day and Valley Freshman of the Year Maya Chandler, the Ramblers advanced to the semifinals of the MVC Championship for the first time in program history this past Friday, defeating third-seeded Illinois State, 61-60, before bowing out to fifth-seeded Bradley, which went on to take home the tournament title, 70-56.