The Sacramento State women's basketball team is set to conclude a demanding stretch of three games in just five days when they travel to Ogden, Utah, for a Monday evening showdown against Weber State. This matchup carries additional significance as it likely marks the final chapter in the two programs' Big Sky Conference rivalry, with the Hornets preparing to transition to the Big West Conference for the 2026-27 academic year.
A Challenging Schedule Stretch
The Hornets enter Monday's contest with a respectable 11-11 overall record and a 5-4 mark in Big Sky play, having won two of their last three outings. The compressed schedule presents a significant test of endurance and depth for head coach Aaron Kallhoff's squad, who must maintain their competitive edge while managing fatigue from the rapid succession of games. This type of scheduling gauntlet is not uncommon in mid-major college basketball, where teams often face travel and turnaround challenges that test their resilience and roster management.
Coach Kallhoff, in his third season directing the Hornets' program, brings a wealth of experience to this situation. His tenure at Sacramento State has produced a 32-54 record, while his overall head coaching career spans seven-plus seasons with a 110-130 mark. Earlier this season, Kallhoff achieved a significant milestone, securing his 100th career victory in the Hornets' season-opening triumph over Stanton University. That achievement underscores his steady leadership as he guides this program through both competitive and transitional periods. His ability to navigate this grueling schedule while keeping his team focused speaks to his coaching acumen and the trust his players place in his system.
The Weber State Challenge
Standing opposite the Hornets will be a Weber State program enduring one of the most difficult seasons in recent memory. The Wildcats carry a 6-16 overall record and have yet to taste victory in conference action, having dropped all nine of their Big Sky contests to date. Their most recent win came during the non-conference portion of the schedule, a 74-61 victory over Omaha at a Loyola Marymount-hosted tournament just before the Christmas holiday. That victory now feels like a distant memory as the Wildcats have struggled to find any rhythm in league play.
Despite their struggles, Weber State has shown glimpses of competitiveness, particularly on their home floor at the Dee Events Center. Four of the team's six wins this season have come in Ogden, where they hold a 4-6 record compared to a dismal 1-10 mark in true road games. This home-court advantage, however modest, could provide a spark for a team desperate to break their conference losing streak and salvage pride in what has been a challenging campaign. The familiarity of their own court, combined with the support of their local fans, might give them the emotional lift needed to compete with a more successful Sacramento State squad.
The Wildcats' most recent outing saw them fall 65-54 to Idaho State on Saturday, a defeat that extended their conference skid and highlighted the ongoing challenges facing third-year head coach Jenteal Jackson. In her two-plus seasons at the helm, Jackson has compiled a 27-57 record while working to rebuild the program and establish a foundation for future success. Her task is formidable: instilling confidence in a team that has known mostly defeat while developing young talent and implementing a system that can compete in the increasingly competitive Big Sky landscape.
Key Players to Watch
Weber State's offensive attack centers around senior forward Antoniette Emma-Nnopu, who missed the first meeting between these teams back on January 3rd in Sacramento. Emma-Nnopu has been a force when healthy, leading the Wildcats in both scoring (14.3 points per game) and rebounding (10.2 rebounds per game) while shooting an efficient 55.2% from the floor. Her presence adds a dimension that the Hornets did not have to contend with in their earlier victory, potentially complicating Sacramento State's defensive schemes. Her ability to score in the paint and clean the glass makes her a focal point of any opponent's game plan.
Joining Emma-Nnopu in the Wildcats' attack are senior guard Lanae Billy (12.0 points per game) and junior guard Hannah Robbins (10.7 points per game). Notably, Billy and Robbins have been iron women for Weber State, starting all 22 games this season and providing stability in an otherwise turbulent campaign. Their ability to create offense, manage possessions, and provide leadership will be critical if the Wildcats hope to upset the Hornets. The backcourt duo's experience and durability have made them the backbone of Weber State's rotation.
As a team, Weber State averages 63.8 points per game while shooting 40.1% from the field. Defensively, they have struggled to contain opponents, who are averaging 67.6 points per game while shooting 39.8% from the floor. These margins explain their negative record, as they consistently fall just short in the scoring battle. The Wildcats' inability to get key stops in crucial moments has been their Achilles' heel, turning potential wins into losses.
Earlier Meeting and Series History
The Hornets secured a victory in the first matchup between these squads, which took place during the opening weekend of Big Sky conference play on January 3rd in Sacramento. That win gave Sacramento State momentum early in the league schedule and demonstrated their ability to execute against Weber State's defensive approach. The Hornets' familiarity with the Wildcats' tendencies could prove advantageous, though the return of Emma-Nnopu changes the equation significantly.
Historically, Weber State holds a significant advantage in the all-time series, leading 36-23. The vast majority of these meetings have occurred since 1997 when both programs became Big Sky members, with only two exceptions: postseason tournament matchups in 2017 and 2022. This long-standing rivalry has produced many competitive contests over the years, though the Hornets have claimed victory in the last two encounters, suggesting a potential shift in the competitive balance.
Monday's game carries the weight of finality, as it represents the last regular-season meeting between these programs as conference rivals. Barring an unlikely matchup in the Big Sky Tournament in March, the Hornets will begin their new chapter in the Big West next season, leaving this geographic and competitive relationship behind. Of Sacramento State's 23 series wins, 14 have come on their home court, where they hold a 14-13 record. Their performance on Weber State's floor has been less successful, making this opportunity for a road sweep particularly meaningful and potentially symbolic of their program's growth.
Game Details and Viewing Information
The matchup is scheduled for Monday, February 2nd, 2026, with tip-off set for 5:00 PM Pacific Time at the Dee Events Center in Ogden, Utah. Fans can catch the action via ESPN+, the conference's digital streaming platform that has become essential for mid-major college basketball coverage. Live statistics will be available through WeberStateSports.com, providing real-time updates for those following along. The 5 PM tip time on a Monday presents a unique challenge, as both teams must prepare for an early-week game that requires mental sharpness and quick recovery from weekend action.
For the Hornets, this game represents more than just another conference matchup. It's a chance to secure a season sweep over their Big Sky rival, build momentum heading into the final stretch of conference play, and demonstrate their ability to win on the road under challenging circumstances. A victory would push Sacramento State above the .500 mark in league play and strengthen their positioning for the upcoming conference tournament, potentially earning them a more favorable seed.
What's at Stake
Both teams enter this contest with distinct motivations. For Sacramento State, the objectives are clear: manage fatigue from the grueling schedule, execute their game plan efficiently, and secure a road victory that would serve as a statement win. The Hornets have shown resilience this season, and completing a three-games-in-five-days stretch with a win would speak volumes about their mental and physical toughness. It would also provide momentum as they eye the conference tournament and prepare for their eventual move to the Big West.
Weber State, meanwhile, is playing for pride, progress, and proof that their efforts are yielding results. A victory would not only break their nine-game conference losing streak but also provide tangible evidence of improvement for Coach Jackson's rebuilding efforts. With their home crowd behind them and the return of Emma-Nnopu to the lineup since the first meeting, the Wildcats have legitimate reasons for optimism despite their record. A win against a .500 team would be a significant confidence booster for a program in need of positive reinforcement.
The contrasting trajectories of these programs add another layer of intrigue. Sacramento State is preparing for a conference transition that promises new opportunities and challenges, while Weber State is working to establish stability and competitiveness within the Big Sky. This game serves as a brief intersection of those paths, a final handshake before the Hornets depart for what they hope will be greener pastures.
Statistical Breakdown and Matchup Analysis
From a statistical perspective, the Hornets hold several advantages. Their .500 overall record reflects a more balanced team than the Wildcats' 6-16 mark suggests. Sacramento State's ability to win two of three during this compressed schedule indicates depth and effective rotation management—critical factors when facing a team struggling to find consistent success. The Hornets' bench production and ability to rest starters could be decisive in the second half.
Weber State's reliance on Emma-Nnopu, Billy, and Robbins is evident, with the trio accounting for the vast majority of the team's offensive production. If Sacramento State can limit Emma-Nnopu's impact on the glass and force the Wildcats' supporting cast to beat them, they should find success. Conversely, if the Hornets struggle to contain the senior forward's interior presence, the game could become more competitive than the records suggest. Double-teaming Emma-Nnopu and forcing turnovers could be key defensive strategies.
The three-point shooting battle could prove decisive. While the original article didn't provide specific three-point statistics, mid-major games often hinge on perimeter efficiency. Whichever team can establish their outside shot while defending the arc effectively will likely control the game's flow. Sacramento State's ability to stretch the floor could open driving lanes, while Weber State must find ways to generate open looks for their shooters.
Looking Ahead
Beyond Monday's contest, both programs face pivotal stretches. Sacramento State will continue navigating Big Sky play before their conference transition, with each game serving as preparation for the heightened competition expected in the Big West. The experience gained during challenging schedule stretches like this one will prove invaluable as they elevate their program profile and recruit to a higher level of competition.
For Weber State, the remainder of the season focuses on development and building blocks for future success. Coach Jackson's staff is undoubtedly evaluating talent, refining systems, and establishing the culture necessary to compete consistently in the Big Sky. While wins have been scarce, the opportunity to compete against established programs like Sacramento State provides valuable experience for a roster that includes several underclassmen who will form the core of future teams.
Final Thoughts
As the Hornets board their bus for the trip to Ogden, they carry with them the weight of expectation and the opportunity for accomplishment. A victory would validate their preparation, demonstrate their resilience, and provide a fitting conclusion to their Big Sky rivalry with Weber State. For the Wildcats, Monday night offers a chance to write a different ending to their season narrative—one of triumph rather than continued struggle.
The beauty of college basketball lies in these stories: programs at different stages of their journeys intersecting for 40 minutes of competition. Records and statistics provide context, but they don't determine outcomes. The Hornets must still execute, the Wildcats must still compete, and the result will be decided on the hardwood, not on paper. The emotional charge of a final meeting, combined with the practical implications of conference standings, creates a compelling backdrop for this matchup.
With tip-off scheduled for 5 PM Pacific Time, both teams will look to leave everything on the court in what promises to be an emotionally charged and competitively significant matchup. For Sacramento State, it's about finishing strong and building momentum. For Weber State, it's about starting anew and proving they can compete. The Dee Events Center will host this final Big Sky chapter, and fans tuning in on ESPN+ will witness the conclusion of a rivalry that has spanned decades and meant so much to both programs.