NWCC Women’s Basketball Secures Fifth Conference Win with 70-59 Victory over Jones
Senatobia, Miss. — The Northwest Mississippi Community College women’s basketball team earned its fifth conference win of the season with a 70-59 victory over Jones College. The game featured the return of sophomore forward Takera Bland, who had been sidelined since December due to a knee injury, according to school officials.
Bland played 20 minutes in her return, scoring 12 points on 50% shooting. Her presence on the floor drew defensive attention, creating scoring opportunities for teammates such as Alorian Story. Head coach LaTaryl Williams said Bland’s versatility helped restore balance to the team’s offense.
The first quarter was tightly contested, ending with NWCC trailing by two. Both teams increased their offensive output in the second quarter, but the game was still close. Dekyra Mitchell hit a contested three-pointer with three seconds remaining, giving the Rangers a three-point lead at halftime. Mitchell scored 13 points in the first half.
Story, who finished with 21 points and 21 rebounds for her first 20-20 game of the season, also contributed a double-double before halftime. The Bobcats’ man-to-man defense played into her strengths, and she credited the defense for her success.
The third quarter saw NWCC struggle offensively, scoring only 12 points and turning the ball over six times. The Bobcats capitalized on turnovers, scoring four points off those mistakes. The Rangers improved ball security in the fourth quarter, reducing turnovers to three and involving multiple players in scoring. Story, Mitchell, Layla Hampton, and Jhaniya Davis all contributed key points down the stretch.
Hampton nearly recorded a triple-double with 13 points, seven assists, and six rebounds. Mitchell added 16 points and four assists. The team’s support on and off the court was also noted as vital to their success, with Story emphasizing the importance of bench energy.
The team quickly shifts focus to an upcoming rescheduled game against Northeast Mississippi Community College, set for Saturday at 2 p.m. at Howard Coliseum. The game will be streamed live on Ranger TV. Coach Williams said the team’s mindset remains the same: “I got you. You got me. We got us.” For updates, fans are encouraged to follow NWCC women’s basketball on social media or visit nwccrangers.com.
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