Despite a packed crowd of S M Rissler Elementary students and other NCMC faithful, the 12th ranked Lady Pirates couldn't match a tough 2nd ranked Johnson County Community College squad. NCMC fell by the final score of 56-41. The loss was the second of the season to the high-powered Cavaliers and leaves NCMC's season record at 13-4. Next up will be a home tilt on January 10th with Highland CC Kansas.
NCMC remained resilient but struggled offensively throughout the game. Bailey Fleming was efficient and led the Lady Pirates with 10 points, showcasing her shooting accuracy. Mary Copeland contributed 8 points and 6 rebounds. However, the team as a whole faced challenges finding their shooting rhythm, registering only 26.7% from the field and 15.8% from the three-point line. The team also struggled from the charity stipe, making just 6 of 14 for a 42.9% mark.
Tori Meinecke posted 7 points, contributing to the team's efforts in the paint with 3 rebounds. Nateonia Russell added 7 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, showcasing her tenacity on both ends of the court. Jessica Reeter, NCMC's leading scorer this season, was held without any points and only attempted 4 field goals with no success.
The reserves contributed to the game, with Gladys Brown securing 6 rebounds and adding 3 points off the bench. Still, the team struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities and faced defensive pressure from Johnson County CC, which controlled the flow of the game.