NCMC women's basketball, ranked 9th in the latest NJCAA DII poll, lost a defensive matchup with Highland Community College 54-45 on the road Wednesday. The Lady Pirates are now 10-2 overall and will look to rebound from the loss with a home game against Allen County CC on Saturday next on the schedule.
That game, dubbed the Ugly Sweater/Toy Toss Game, is a combined effort from Wright Memorial Physicians' Group, Saint Luke's Mercer County Clinic and the NCMC Athletic Department to benefit children in Grundy and Mercer counties. The event will benefit children ages 2-17 years old. Donated toys from fans taken to the Department of Social Services Children's Division and Trenton Kiwanis Club for distribution in the community.
Against Highland on the road, the Lady Pirates struggled to find consistent shooting throughout the game, reflected in their 25.0% field goal percentage and 17.9% from beyond the arc. Despite the challenges faced on the offensive end, Nateonia Russell's performance stood out as she managed to secure 7 rebounds while contributing 7 points for the team. Bailey Fleming chipped in with a team high 12 points, although her efforts were not enough to secure a victory.
On the defensive front, Mary Copeland demonstrated her rebounding skills by grabbing 6 rebounds and tallying 7 points for NCMC. As a team, the Lady Pirates forced 24 turnovers but their shooting woes did not let them capitalize enough for victory.
Highland CC displayed a slightly more efficient offensive performance, shooting 35.0% from the field and 25.0% from the three-point range. Jalasia Hull led the Scotties with 18 points, proving to be a significant offensive threat throughout the game. Cameron McNamara was a force on the glass, pulling down 15 rebounds and blocking 5 shots. NCMC was outrebounded in the game 45-29.