The Northwest Mississippi Community College women’s basketball team extended its winning streak with a 77-57 victory over Hinds Community College on Tuesday night in Senatobia. The Rangers led from the opening tip and built a commanding first-quarter lead.
Northwest exploded offensively in the first quarter, scoring 33 points — the most in a single quarter this season. The team hit four three-pointers, including a buzzer-beater from Dekyra Mitchell. Alorian Story scored eight points in the quarter while shooting 57% from the field.
Both teams struggled offensively in the second quarter, combining for just 12 points. Northwest held a 40-21 lead at halftime, thanks to their early offensive surge. The third quarter saw another scoring burst from the Rangers, who tallied 22 points. Hinds responded with 19 points in the frame, but the deficit remained significant.
Although Hinds outscored Northwest 18-13 in the final quarter, the Rangers’ large early lead secured the win. The game provided valuable playing time for bench players, helping the team prepare for upcoming postseason matchups. All players who saw action scored, with three reaching double figures.
Head coach LaTaryl Williams emphasized the importance of depth ahead of the playoffs. “Going into the playoffs, you want to have a rotation and some depth because right now, everyone is tired and banged up,” she said.
Story led all scorers with 17 points despite six rebounds. Takera Bland, returning from injury, scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds, earning her the NWCC Player of the Game. Bland credited her success to simple strategies like reading the defense and finding open looks.
Northwest improved to 2-0 this week, which Williams called their toughest of the season. The team will next face Copiah-Lincoln in Wesson on Saturday at 1 p.m. The game will be streamed live at https://colinathletics.com/general/live_stream. Fans can follow the team on social media or visit nwccrangers.com for updates.
