The 7th ranked NCMC Lady Pirates used an outstanding defensive second half to erase a 4 point halftime deficit and defeat Moberly Area CC 68-63 on Wednesday night. They held Moberly to just 22 second half points to improve to 23-4 on the season.
Tori Meinecke had an outstanding performance for North Central Missouri, leading the team with 20 points and an impressive double-double, pulling down 13 rebounds. Meinecke's dominance in the paint, combined with her efficiency at the free-throw line (8-9), played a crucial role in her team's success.
Nateonia Russell contributed significantly with 7 points and 9 rebounds, showcasing her presence on both ends of the court. Russell's ability to secure rebounds and provide valuable points proved essential to NCMC's game plan.
Jessica Reeter added 9 points, with her three-point shooting (2-6) providing a crucial scoring dimension.
Bailey Fleming and Mary Copeland made key contributions as well. Fleming's three-point shooting and Copeland's effectiveness at the free-throw line were crucial in stretching the floor and maintaining offensive momentum.
Gladys Brown and LaKorria Brown, coming off the bench, provided a spark for the Lady Pirates. Their combined efforts, along with the contributions of Oliviya Tinoco, Jacie Morris, and Kiara Franklin, demonstrated the team's depth and versatility.
NCMC shot the ball well in the game, a real difference maker. The Lady Pirate's 47.9% from the field proved the difference compared to Moberly's 38.3%. The skilled shooting helped NCMC overcome a high turnover night of 29. Additionally, NCMC's discipline on defense was evident as they committed just 16 personal fouls to Moberly's 31. A key pair of Greyhounds fouled out in the contest, proving pivotal down the stretch.
