NIAGARA UN., N.Y. — The Niagara University women’s basketball team (17-11) makes its second overall appearance in the semifinals of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Tournament when it meets cross-town rival Canisius College (19-9) today at 1:30 p.m. in HSBC Arena.

   The No. 3 Purple Eagles reached the semifinals with a 69-46 victory over No. 9 Rider University Friday afternoon. The No. 2 Golden Griffins reached the semifinals with a 60-50 win over No. 8 Manhattan College.

   Niagara enters the contest on a three-game winning streak and as winners in five of its last seven games. Canisius has won its last four games and nine of its last 10.

   This afternoon’s affair will be the 62nd meeting between the teams. The Golden Griffins lead the series, 34-27, and won both games during the regular season.

   Today’s game can be seen live on Adelphia Cable and heard live on WJJL 1440 AM and on the Niagara University official website www.PurpleEagles.com.