Stanford women hope to extend Maples streak over Tennessee

Stanford’s timing could be better. On the heels of the Cardinal women’s stunning home loss to Western Illinois on Monday night, they play a Tennessee team off to its best start in 12 years.

The Lady Vols (11-0) are ranked No. 7, and they probably are eager for a win at Maples Pavilion on Thursday night, having lost their past five games there.

Stanford (6-5) is ranked No. 18 but is probably headed downward in next week’s poll unless it pulls an upset in the 6 p.m. game.

After losing to a mid-major team, “they’re going to be spitting nails, I’m sure,” Tennessee head coach Holly Warlick said.