Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

Stafford, Texas — The I-45 matchup delivered exactly what rivalry games are supposed to bring: intensity, momentum swings, and a fourth quarter that demanded poise.

Inside The Stable, North American secured a hard-earned 72-68 victory over Paul Quinn College in a contest that carried RRAC positioning, HBCU Conference pride, and USCAA Regional implications.

And make no mistake — the scoring listed under "OT" in the box reflects the fourth quarter production. That final frame decided this one.

Quarter by Quarter – A Game of Adjustments

The opening quarter ended even at 14-14. Neither side blinked.

Paul Quinn gained a slight edge in the second quarter, outscoring North American 23-20 and taking a narrow halftime lead.

The third quarter remained tight — physical possessions, contested shots, and defensive rotations on both ends. With the game hanging in the balance entering the fourth, this became about execution.

North American delivered.

The Lady Stallions scored 24 points in the fourth quarter, controlling pace late and converting key possessions to seal the 72-68 win.

That's maturity. That's growth. That's understanding how to close.

Leaders Rise When It Matters

Jerkayla Dickey was relentless:

• 18 points

• 6-of-7 from the free throw line

• 6 rebounds

• 5 steals

• 4 assists

She attacked downhill and made critical plays defensively.

Akyra Hodges matched her production with:

• 18 points

• 8-of-13 shooting

• 7 rebounds

Efficient and steady all night.

Aliyah Solis added 12 points, knocking down four three-pointers while contributing 4 assists and 3 steals.

Off the bench, Savannah Velazquez injected energy:

• 9 points

• 7 rebounds

• 6 steals

• 4 assists

That's impact basketball.

The Difference: Rebounding & Defensive Activity

North American controlled the glass 39-29, including 15 offensive rebounds. Extra possessions in a four-point game matter.

The Lady Stallions also recorded 16 steals, turning defensive pressure into transition opportunities.

Paul Quinn was led by Canai McPherson's 22 points and Tyreshia Sessions' 15 off the bench. They competed. They pushed.

But when the fourth quarter demanded discipline, North American responded with composure and defensive stops.

Bigger Than a Box Score

This was Houston vs Dallas.
This was RRAC vs HBCU Conference.
This was regional positioning.

The Lady Stallions didn't just win — they showed they can close tight games in February, which tells you something about March.

Pressure doesn't break prepared teams. It reveals them.

And on this night, North American revealed toughness.

The Stable stays protected.  

Up Next

North American returns to action on February 19, 2026 at 5:30 PM CST as they host Jarvis Christian University inside The Stable.

Another conference test.
Another opportunity to build momentum.

February basketball is about positioning — and the Lady Stallions are trending in the right direction.