After a strong 2-0 GLIAC start, the Michigan Tech women’s basketball team will briefly return to non-conference play as they prepare for one of only two regular season Tuesday games, the first coming on Dec. 8 against DIII Finlandia. The No. 1 Huskies are the clear favorite against their Hancock neighbors, as Michigan Tech is 18-0 all-time against the Lions, and they defeated them 91-30 during last year’s match-up at the SDC.

Head Coach John Barnes is making sure his team does not play down to their opponent, whose veteran lineup could surprise the Huskies if they are unprepared. “This week we have to focus on being mentally sharp,” said Barnes. “I said in practice that if a player isn’t ready to go, I’m going to get someone else in there. I really leave it up to them to get mentally prepared, and if they’re not, I’ll go to the next person.”

The Huskies can get a fair appraisal of Finlandia based off the Lions’ 76-47 loss to fellow GLIAC foe and the Huskies’ Saturday opponent, Northern Michigan. For reference, the Wildcats defeated common opponent Northwood (who the Huskies defeated 58-54) by an 88-76 score, so Northern Michigan can clearly score, and Finlandia can clearly hold their own, perhaps more than they did in last year’s 91-30 loss to the Huskies.

Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at the SDC Wood Gym between the Huskies and the Lions. Check out mtulode.com/sports/basketball following the game for a full recap, and do not forget to check out Thursday’s print edition for a preview of Saturday’s road contest against arch-rival Northern Michigan.