Duquesne Women’s Basketball 2025 Nonconference Schedule Highlights and Key Games

The latest in college sports brings some genuinely exciting updates for fans of Duquesne women’s basketball, West Virginia volleyball, and RMU men’s soccer. From Duquesne’s non-conference schedule to preseason predictions for West Virginia’s volleyball team, plus some well-deserved attention for RMU’s star goalkeeper—there’s a lot brewing this season.

Let’s get into the details and see what each of these teams has lined up.

Duquesne Women’s Basketball: A Promising Non-Conference Schedule

Duquesne women’s basketball gears up for an action-packed non-conference schedule as they enter their 13th season with head coach Dan Burt. The team opens the season with five home games at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse, giving them a familiar setting to start strong.

Key Home Games

The Dukes host Saint Francis on Nov. 3, followed by Slippery Rock on Nov. 6. These opening matchups offer fans an early look at the team’s form.

First-Ever Matchup Against Western Michigan

On Nov. 9, the Dukes head to Kalamazoo, Mich., for their first-ever faceoff with Western Michigan. It’s the start of their road stretch and a pretty big test right out of the gate.

Return to UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse

After that trip, Duquesne comes back to play West Liberty on Nov. 11. There’s also a noteworthy clash against Robert Morris on Nov. 18—a short drive up I-376 that’s sure to draw plenty of local interest.

Navy Classic

The team travels east to Annapolis, Md., for the Navy Classic on Nov. 29 and Nov. 30. They’ll face Navy, Liberty, and Manhattan, though the exact matchups are still to be announced.

This classic shapes up as a key part of their non-conference slate.

December Road Games

December puts the Dukes back on the road, visiting Eastern Michigan on Dec. 9 and Stony Brook on Dec. 14. These consecutive away games should challenge their adaptability.

The Annual City Game

Non-conference play ends with the annual City Game against Pitt at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse on Dec. 21. This one always draws a crowd and delivers plenty of energy.

West Virginia Volleyball: Building a Strong Foundation

West Virginia volleyball is getting ready for the new season with coach Jen Greeny at the helm. The team was picked to finish last in the Big 12 preseason poll, but they’re not letting that prediction define them.

They’re focused on growth and bouncing back from last year.

Key Players to Watch

Returning players to keep an eye on:

• Cassidy Tanton: Outside hitter, led the team with 310 kills and was MVP at the Wake Forest Invitational All-Tournament last season.
• Maddy McGath: Middle blocker, second in blocks (71) and third in kills (247).
• Laila Ibrahim: Middle blocker, led the team in blocks (113) and was fourth in kills (185).

Season Opener

The Mountaineers open their season on Aug. 29 at 10 a.m. against Towson in Norfolk, Va. This first match should give a sense of how the squad’s coming together under Greeny.

RMU Men’s Soccer: A Goalkeeper to Watch

RMU men’s soccer goalkeeper Josh Lane landed a spot on the United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division I Men’s Goalkeepers to Watch List for 2025. Lane’s standout play last season helped RMU hit some major milestones.

Historic Achievements

Lane guided RMU to its first Horizon League championship and their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2005. His efforts earned him several honors, including:

• United Soccer Coaches All-North Region Third Team
• Horizon League All-League Second Team
• Horizon League All-Tournament Team
• TopDrawerSoccer Team of the Week honors

Season Opener

Lane and the Colonials start their 2025 campaign on the road at Mercyhurst at 7 p.m. on Aug. 21. It’s the first step in what could be another memorable season for RMU men’s soccer.

West Virginia Men’s Soccer: Reigning Sun Belt Conference Champions

West Virginia men’s soccer, last year’s Sun Belt Conference champs, is ranked 16th in the United Soccer Coaches preseason poll. The Mountaineers pulled off a historic run, winning both the Sun Belt regular season and tournament titles for the first time in program history.

Season Opener

The Mountaineers kick off their regular season at 4 p.m. on Aug. 21 against Manhattan. It’s a big moment—they’re hoping to keep the momentum from last season and stay in top form.