An automatic birth to the Big Dance is on the line this afternoon as the Fresno State Western Athletic Conference Championship tournament.

For the third time this season the ‘Dogs will face a battle-tested Louisiana Tech squad who is coming off an 80-77 thriller over host Nevada in the semi-final round.

The Bulldog’s commanding semi-final win over Idaho has made them the heavy favorite to make it three straight conference championships. Head coach Adrian Wiggins saw three of his starters record double-doubles anchored by Jaleesa Ross’ 25 points including 15 in the second half.

The Lady Techsters, however, are one of the few conference teams to give the ‘Dogs a contest in 2010 after forcing an overtime matchup on Feb. 24 before falling 80-77.

Fresno State will need to contain Louisiana Tech’s physical play, especially in the paint against the Lady Techster’s Adrienne Johnson and Shanavia Dowdell who combined for 53 points in yesterday’s win.