The Mount Olive College women's basketball team inches closer and closer to the start of the team's NCAA Division II Tournament opener. Now, with less than 24 hours before the squad takes on top-ranked and undefeated Clayton State, Trojan coaches are finalizing their strategies and getting their players in the right frame of mind – a winning frame of mind.

After a busy day of practice and seeing the sights of Atlanta, Ga., the ladies are ready to take to the court. On the second day of their trip to the Regionals, the women got an opportunity to sleep later than usual after arriving to the hotel late Wednesday night. After lunch, the team loaded onto the bus for their final full practice before the quarterfinals. For 55 minutes, coaches pushed the players, preparing for anything the Lakers can throw at them when the tip ball is airborne Friday night at 6 p.m.

Thursday's pressure was full of yelling as the coaching staff demanded more and more from the team, especially on defense.

"This is where we knew we could be," said Trojan redshirt senior Andrea Jones. "We spent all year getting here. We've worked really hard."

Jones had a unique perspective to the Trojans' roller coaster ride. The senior was injured during the preseason and never appeared in a game, choosing instead to using the season as a redshirt year. One of the most dangerous outside shooters in the region was sorely missed on the court during the season, especially when a February slump added to the pressure Mount Olive faced when the conference tournament came around.

"I always wanted this team to win. But I have to admit it's hard not to be selfish sometimes," said Jones. "I tried to encourage my teammates. I think this year I have learned what leadership is all about. I can't wait to get out there again and show that leadership."

After a short, but intense practice, the team made the short drive into Atlanta where the team toured the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Museum and birthplace.

"I thought it was really fun. It's nice to get away from the routine," said Trojan junior Alexandra Silva. "I learned so much about black heritage, listening to his speeches."

The team watched a short film on Dr. King's life and dream, while so many in the United States fought his beliefs.

"I think I will remember what he said about his funeral the most. He didn't want to be remembered for all the awards he won, but for the lives he touched," said freshman Anamaria Zjacic.

Zjacic also brings a unique perspective from the tournament. From her days growing up in Croatia, she traveled quite a bit going from opponent to opponent.

"I loved visiting the sites," said Zjacic. "My family has always been very religious."

On Friday, it is back to business as usual for the Trojans. After breakfast the team travels back to Clayton State for a 25-minute walk-through. Then, the games begin. For the players the rewards for all their hard work will continue as long as they win. The hard work will continue to pay off.

"We give up a lot during the season. We don't get winter break or spring break," said Silva. "Even while we are here, we are students first. We all have our homework to finish tonight. This is what we do it for."