North American University Conquers Texas A&M Texarkana in Tactical Masterclass

Written by Rev. Justin C. Jackson

Stafford, TX – In an electrifying clash reminiscent of a soccer derby, the North American University Stallions showcased relentless defensive pressure and clinical execution to defeat the Texas A&M Texarkana Eagles 77-58. From the opening tip to the final buzzer, the Stallions delivered a performance that left fans at "The Stable" roaring with pride.

First Half: Setting the Tempo

The opening quarter saw Victoria Moore asserting her dominance as the midfield general of this hardwood battle. Her quick baskets and keen eye for defensive gaps set the pace, as North American ended the first quarter ahead 18-15.   Victoria Moore, affectionately dubbed "The Point Goddess," came off the bench to lead the team with 17 points in just 22 minutes, proving why she's a difference-maker and the spark plug for the Stallions.

The Eagles, led by Kayla Williams, clawed their way back in the second quarter. Williams, displaying the finesse of a seasoned striker, attacked the paint and sank pivotal shots to help Texarkana outscore the Stallions 19-16 in the period. By halftime, the Eagles had narrowed the gap to a slim 34-33, setting up what promised to be an exhilarating second half.

Second Half: The Stallion Stampede

True to their name, the Stallions stormed out of the locker room like a team on a mission. The third quarter became their battleground, and they launched a 25-10 run that completely changed the game.

Aliyah Solis, in a display worthy of the #10 jersey in soccer, struck from distance with a pivotal three-pointer that shifted momentum. Keasia Robinson, the Stallions' rock at the back, dominated the boards with nine rebounds, turning defensive stops into second-chance points. Her effort mirrored that of a center back clearing the ball out of danger repeatedly.

Victoria Moore continued her all-around brilliance, contributing on both ends of the court. Her three steals in the fourth quarter were like last-ditch tackles, disrupting Texarkana's rhythm and ensuring they couldn't mount a comeback. The Stallions also demonstrated poise under pressure at the free-throw line, with Solis and Robinson converting critical shots to seal the win.

Key Performances: Players of the Match                                  

• Victoria Moore: The playmaker of the evening, Moore led the team with 17 points on 7-12 shooting, added three steals, and kept the Eagles' defense guessing with her sharp movements and decision-making.          
• Aliyah Solis: The versatile winger of this squad, Solis tallied 15 points, three rebounds, and three assists. Her three-pointer in the third quarter was the turning point, and her two steals highlighted her defensive prowess.
• Keasia Robinson: The Stallions' stalwart defender, Robinson controlled the glass with nine rebounds, while adding 11 points, two steals, and a block. Though her free-throw shooting needs polish, her contributions were invaluable.
• Maurdaisha Powell: A vital playmaker, Powell chipped in 10 points and a team-high four assists, orchestrating the offense like a midfield maestro.

Eagles' Bright Spots

For Texarkana, Delfina Misiuna stood out with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks. She was a force in the paint, akin to a towering goalkeeper denying easy goals. Kayla Williams added 11 points and eight rebounds, while Quren Santiago provided a spark off the bench with 10 points and five rebounds.

Turning Point: The Stallions' Dominance in the Third Quarter

The third quarter was where the Stallions separated themselves from the Eagles. Their suffocating full-court 91 feet of Woman to Woman Defense forced Texarkana into 24 turnovers across the game, leading to fast-break opportunities and easy points. The defensive intensity, combined with offensive precision, created a gulf that Texarkana could not bridge.

Coach's Notes

"The effort tonight was a testament to disciplined execution and heart," said the Stallions' Head Coach. "We played like a team fighting for every possession, and that's the standard we aim to set every game."

Final Whistle

As the clock hit full time, the Stallions celebrated a well-earned victory, their second-half surge a testament to their resilience and tactical awareness. Fans and players alike left "The Stable" with their heads held high, knowing that this performance was one for the history books.

Until the next battle on the court, Stallion Nation – keep those four-fingered hooves up and shout it loud: Gooooooo Stallionsssss!!!