North American University Captures USCAA National Championship

Epic Comeback Win The Stallions Way

North American University Captures USCAA National Championship in Epic Comeback Win

Written By: Coach Jackson

When the moment demanded greatness, North American University delivered. In a stunning display of resilience, grit, and championship heart, the Stallions stormed back from a 20-point first-quarter deficit to defeat Bryant & Stratton (Buffalo) 69-65, claiming the 2025 USCAA Women's Basketball National Championship.

This wasn't just a comeback—it was a statement—a statement that this team would not be denied, no matter the odds or the deficit. Now, they stand at the top as National Champions.

A Game of Champions: The Tale of the Comeback

It couldn't have started much worse for North American University. In the biggest game of the year, the Stallions found themselves buried under a 23-3 first-quarter deficit, struggling to find any rhythm while Bryant & Stratton perfectly executed their game plan.

But, championships aren't won in the first quarter.

The Stallions, known for their toughness, refused to go down quietly. In the second quarter, they won the frame 17-14, beginning the slow climb back into contention. Then came the third-quarter explosion, where NAU's defense turned up the intensity, their rebounding became relentless, and their shots finally started falling. A 23-15 third quarter cut the deficit to a manageable margin heading into the final 10 minutes.

And then, in the fourth quarter, the Stallions took over.

With their championship hopes hanging in the balance, NAU delivered a 29-10 fourth quarter, completely flipping the game and shocking Bryant & Stratton. The Bobcats, who had looked unstoppable early, were held to just 25 total points in the second half, while NAU's relentless pressure broke them down.

As the final buzzer sounded, the Stallions stood victorious, champions of the USCAA.

By the Numbers: Championship-Winning Stats

Field Goal Percentage: NAU battled through shooting struggles, finishing 20-68 (29.4%) but making key shots when it mattered most.
Three-Point Shooting: The Stallions knocked down 6-16 from beyond the arc (37.5%), with clutch threes igniting the comeback.
Rebounding Battle: NAU won the glass 47-43, including an overwhelming 21-10 edge in offensive rebounds, leading to second-chance points that fueled their rally.
Defensive Dominance: The Stallions forced 29 turnovers, converting them into crucial fast-break points.
Bench Contributions: NAU's depth was a difference-maker, with 19 bench points giving them the spark needed to complete the comeback.

Key Players: The Championship Heroes

Keasia Robinson (F) – The Enforcer in the Paint - 14 points, 10 rebounds (5 offensive), 2 steals, 4-9 FT
When NAU needed toughness, Robinson provided it. Her dominance on the glass kept possessions alive and gave the Stallions the extra chances they needed to win.

Jerkayla Dickey (G) – The Clutch Performer - 13 points, 6 rebounds, 1 steal, 6-10 FT
Dickey stepped up when it mattered most, attacking the rim and making key free throws down the stretch.

Jewel Brandley (G) – The X-Factor - 12 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal, 4-7 FG, 4-6 FT
Coming off the bench, Brandley's efficient scoring was critical in shifting the momentum back to NAU.

Victoria Moore (G) – The Sharpshooter - 11 points, 3 assists, 3 steals, 3-7 from three
Moore's deep shooting stretched the defense and opened up opportunities for her teammates.

D'Marchay Scott (G) – The Small but Mighty Contribution - 2 points, 1 rebound in just few minutes
Scott played just a few minutes but went 2-for-2 from the line,showing why we call her BIG PLAY CHAY and proving that every moment counts in a championship game.

Bryant & Stratton's Top Performers (But Not Enough to Stop NAU)

Chanice Willis (G) - 15 points, 8 assists, 3-7 from three
Madison Carey (G) - 13 points, 5-6 FT
Chelsea Johnson (F) - 12 points, 9 rebounds, 5-6 FG
Imani Ward (F) - 7 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists

Despite their strong individual performances, Bryant & Stratton collapsed under pressure, struggling to take care of the ball and getting outscored 52-25 in the final three quarters.

Coach's View: The Mark of a Champion

"We knew it wasn't going to be easy," said NAU's Coach N. Davis Sr. after the game. "When you're down 23-3 in the first quarter, the easy thing to do is give up. But champions don't take the easy way out. We fought, we stayed locked in, and we played Stallion basketball. That's why we're taking this trophy home."

The Importance of Postseason Play for Small Colleges

For small colleges like North American University, postseason play is everything.

It's not just about winning a championship. It's about opportunity. It's about proving you belong on the biggest stage. It's about putting your school, your team, and your program on the national map.

The USCAA National Championship gives schools like NAU a platform to showcase their talent, their resilience, and their championship pedigree. Without these postseason opportunities, teams wouldn't have the chance to compete for something bigger than themselves.

For NAU, this win is more than just a trophy—it's a legacy.

It's a message to every small college team in the country: "Give us the stage, and we'll show you what we're made of."

The Legacy: NAU Leaves as National Champions

Kicking Down Your Door Lady Stallion Style

The 2025 USCAA Women's Basketball National Championship now belongs to North American University.

This wasn't just another game. This was a defining moment.

NAU proved that it's not about how you start—it's about how you finish. They overcame adversity, stayed the course, and delivered a championship-winning performance that will be remembered for years to come.

For the seniors, this is the ultimate send-off.
For the underclassmen, this sets the standard.
And for North American University, this is history.