The 18th-ranked NCMC men’s basketball team commenced Region 16 play with a decisive 114-68 triumph over Metropolitan Community College. The Pirates’ sharpshooting performance away from home elevated their overall record to 13-4, setting the stage for their upcoming challenge against Graceland University JV at home on Tuesday. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on the 23rd.
The starting lineup for NCMC played a crucial role in the team’s success. Isaiah Reams delivered an outstanding performance, leading all scorers with an impressive 26 points, while Tyler King and Giovanni Mack contributed 15 and 16 points, respectively.
Khalil Screen made a significant impact off the bench, scoring 10 points. In a reserve role, Jon Carroll continued to be a force inside, recording 13 points and securing 6 rebounds. Jamaal Davis led the team with 9 rebounds of his own.
Defensively, NCMC showcased intensity, registering 10 steals and 9 blocks. The team’s ability to disrupt Metropolitan’s offense and capitalize on turnovers for scoring opportunities played a pivotal role in the one-sided victory.
The Pirates demonstrated proficiency in shooting on Saturday, boasting a solid 54.3% from the field and converting 34 of 47 free throws.
North Central Missouri’s effective shooting, dominance on the boards, and defensive prowess defined their commanding road victory, highlighting the team’s cohesion and skill on both ends of the floor.
The 9th-ranked Lady Pirates secured a victory with a final score of 73-54. NCMC’s well-rounded team effort, particularly on the offensive end, played a pivotal role in clinching the win.
Tori Meinecke led the way with a standout performance, contributing 13 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 assists. Meinecke’s dominance on the boards and her ability to impact both ends of the floor set the tone for her team.
Gladys Brown and LaKorria Brown made significant offensive contributions off the bench, scoring 9 and 13 points, respectively. Their combined 22 points, coupled with their proficiency from beyond the arc, added firepower to NCMC’s scoring efforts.
Jessica Reeter and Bailey Fleming showcased scoring versatility, with Reeter contributing 10 points, including two three-pointers, and Fleming adding 5 points. The starting lineup’s ability to distribute the scoring load was a key factor in the Lady Pirates’ offensive success.
Defensively, NCMC effectively limited Metropolitan CC’s scoring opportunities, recording 11 steals and forcing 19 turnovers, underscoring their commitment to a disruptive defensive strategy.
Metropolitan Community College encountered challenges in finding offensive rhythm, shooting 29.8% overall in the game.
With an overall record of 15-4 and a 1-0 standing in Region 16 play, the Lady Pirates’ Tuesday home game has been postponed due to weather conditions. Their next contest will be a home matchup with Jefferson College on Friday.
The Lady Pirates had recruiting success earlier in the week, signing Schuyler County High School (Queen City, MO) senior Sidney Aeschliman to a national letter of intent. Aeschliman will join NCMC freshman Jacie Morris, a 2023 graduate of Schuyler County, on the 2024-2025 NCMC roster.
Saturday’s doubleheader from the A. Fred Pohlman Fieldhouse in Kansas City was broadcast on KGOZ FM 101.7 and Tune-In Radio.
