NAIA Women's Basketball 2024-25 Recap

I-69 Showdown: Lady Stallions Corral Texas College in Commanding Win

North American at Texas College – February 15, 2025

 Tyler, TX – 2404 N Grand Ave
 Final Score: NAU 65, Texas College 55

Lady Stallions Take the Reins in I-69 Showdown

When the dust settled in Tyler, Texas, the Lady Stallions of North American University had galloped away with a 65-55 victory over Texas College, showing dominance on both ends of the court. This win wasn't just another notch on the schedule—it was a statement. The Stallions, known for their aggressive defense and high-energy play, put the Steers in a vice grip during a pivotal third quarter, outscoring them 25-15 to take control of the game.

After a slow start, NAU turned up the heat, riding a balanced attack that featured sharp shooting, stifling defense, and relentless rebounding. The Lady Stallions once again showcased their signature style: a tenacious press defense, patient half-court execution, and a relentless push on the boards.

Key Performers – Stars of the Roundup

 Elisa Peralta was the unquestioned trailblazer, lighting up the scoreboard with 19 points, including four three-pointers, while adding six rebounds and four steals. Her sharpshooting opened up the floor, forcing Texas College's defense into scramble mode.

 Aliyah Solis rode in off the bench and delivered 9 points and 5 rebounds, proving to be a reliable spark plug. Her efficiency (4-of-6 FG) helped keep the offense clicking.

 Jewel Brandley did the dirty work, securing 7 points, 6 rebounds, a block, and a steal. Her physicality in the paint made life difficult for Texas College's post players.

 Maurdaisha Powell chipped in 8 points and 4 rebounds, serving as a steady hand in the backcourt.

 Keasia Robinson contributed 6 points and 6 rebounds, reinforcing the team's commitment to dominating the glass.

Style of Play: How the Lady Stallions Won the Day

Lockdown Defense 

NAU's defensive strategy was nothing short of suffocating. Their full-court press forced Texas College into 22 turnovers, turning Steers possessions into fast-break opportunities for the Stallions. Guards were aggressive in passing lanes, leading to easy transition baskets that shifted the momentum.

Third-Quarter Takeover 

The Lady Stallions exploded in the third quarter, pushing the pace and controlling the tempo. Their 25-15 run was a masterclass in defensive stops leading to offensive execution. Texas College struggled to handle the ball, and NAU capitalized on nearly every mistake.

Dominating the Boards 

Rebounding was a one-sided affair, as the Lady Stallions outworked Texas College 37-25 on the glass. With 12 offensive rebounds, NAU extended possessions and created second-chance opportunities that ultimately buried the Steers.

Texas College's Bright Spots

Despite the loss, Tyler Pyburn stood tall for Texas College, dropping 25 points and grabbing 7 rebounds in a valiant effort. Cree McClemore contributed 13 points, while Neani Stewart added 8 points and 4 rebounds. However, Texas College's struggles from deep (2-of-14 from three-point range, just 14.3%) and their turnover woes proved too much to overcome.
 

Up Next: A High-Stakes Duel with Jarvis Christian

 February 20, 2025 – 7:30 PM CST
 North American vs. Jarvis Christian

Key Players to Watch – Lady Stallions

• Victoria Moore: A steady scorer, she led the team with 15 points in her last outing.
• Ja'naa Johnson: A rebounding machine, she grabbed 10 boards in the previous game, anchoring the defense.
• Keasia Robinson: A versatile playmaker, she contributed 10 points and 8 rebounds, proving to be a key two-way player.

Scouting the Opponent – Jarvis Christian

Jarvis Christian plays a fast-paced, aggressive brand of basketball, which will test the Lady Stallions' ability to control the tempo.

Offensive Strategy

 High Tempo: Expect a track meet—Jarvis thrives on fast breaks and transition scoring.
 Three-Point Shooting: They live and die by the three-ball, stretching defenses with perimeter shooting.
 Ball Movement: Quick passes and off-ball screens create open looks.

Defensive Strategy

 Pressure Defense: Jarvis Christian applies relentless full-court pressure to force turnovers.
 Rebounding Focus: They attack the glass aggressively, limiting opponents' second-chance points.
 Switching Defenders: Their defensive scheme relies on fluid switches to disrupt offensive rhythm.

Keys to Victory for North American

 Handle the Press: Breaking the full-court pressure without costly turnovers will be critical.
 Crash the Boards: Winning the rebounding battle will help control the pace and limit Jarvis' second-chance opportunities.
 Lock Down the Perimeter: Tight perimeter defense will be key to shutting down Jarvis' three-point threats.

With NAU sitting in third place in the conference and eyeing a deep postseason run, this matchup against Jarvis Christian is a must-win to keep the momentum rolling. Expect a high-energy showdown with playoff implications on the line.

The Lady Stallions have found their stride, and with each win, their confidence grows. If they continue to play tough, defend hard, and dominate the glass, the road to the postseason will remain wide open.

Can North American ride their momentum to another victory? Buckle up—it's going to be a wild ride!