NEWPORT NEWS, Va. -- After a two-week layoff for final exams, the Christopher Newport University women's basketball team (5-1) will face one of its toughest tests this weekend, traveling to unbeaten Mary Washington (7-0), ranked 21st in the nation. Tip is set for 2:00 pm on Saturday in Fredericksburg.

Mary Washington has become a national power since head coach Deena Applebury took the helm in 2003-04. The Eagles have posted seven straight 20-win seasons with six NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Final Four berth in 2006-07. This season, senior guard Jenna McRae is leading the way, scoring 15.3 points per game while also grabbing a team-high 6.4 rebounds per contest. Katie Wimmer is also in double figures, averaging 13.7 points per game this season. The Eagles are ranked number one in the nation in scoring defense, allowing just 40.9 points per game so far this season.

The Captains have also raced out to a hot start, with five wins in their first six games. CNU is coming off its only loss of the season, a four-point conference setback versus Methodist University. Balance and defense have been key for the Captains as the team ranks fourth in the nation in field goal percentage (47.3) and 14th in field goal percentage defense (31.2). Sophomore Nicole Mitchell leads the way with 11.7 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Tia Perry has grabbed a team-best 7.5 rebounds, coupled with 10.8 points per game.

CNU holds a slight 21-16 advantage in the all-time series, but the Eagles have won six of the last seven matchups. A live video webcast will be available by clicking here.