Ketcham Community Center's east wall in Trenton, MO

NCMC’s nationally ranked squads building late January momentum with region wins

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In a commanding performance, the 16th-ranked North Central Missouri College Pirates displayed offensive prowess and defensive tenacity on Monday, securing a dominant victory over the Missouri Valley College JV with a final score of 117-55. North Central Missouri (NCMC) swiftly established a 24-0 lead at the beginning of the game and maintained control throughout, extending their winning streak to nine games and improving to 16-4 for the year.

Led by Joe Clark, the starting lineup set the tone for NCMC with a well-rounded offensive and defensive effort. Clark, contributing 11 points and orchestrating five assists, showcased efficiency in leading the team. Giovanni Mack and Tyler King played instrumental roles in the scoring onslaught, combining for 33 points and demonstrating versatility with successful shots from beyond the arc.

Isaiah Reams showcased long-range scoring with two three-pointers and a total of 14 points. Dampier Evans and the rest of the starters significantly contributed to the balanced offensive attack and highlighted the team’s depth.

The NCMC bench made substantial contributions, with Jakorie Terrill and Khalil Screen delivering double-digit performances of 12 and 10 points, respectively. Mikey Thomas also contributed six points to the team’s total.

Defensively, the Pirates dominated the boards, outrebounding Missouri Valley JV by a significant margin. Roman Phillips led with nine rebounds, contributing to the team’s total of 49 rebounds. The team’s commitment to team defense limited Missouri Valley to a shooting percentage of 33.3%.

On Saturday afternoon, the Pirates maintained their undefeated record in Region 16 play with an 83-70 home victory over St. Louis CC on Saturday, bringing their overall record to 15-4 and 3-0 in Region play.  Tyler King showcased exceptional scoring prowess with a 30-point performance, leading NCMC to success. His versatility in scoring, including successful three-pointers and free throws, played a pivotal role in securing the win. Isaiah Reams contributed 18 points, and Giovanni Mack demonstrated playmaking skills with eight assists and added 11 points.

The NCMC bench, including Mikey Thomas, Jon Carroll, and Jamaal Davis, significantly contributed to the team’s depth. Defensively, the team showcased discipline with only 15 personal fouls, limiting St. Louis CC’s offensive opportunities and forcing turnovers.

Despite a 20-point effort from Devin Davis for St. Louis Community College, North Central Missouri’s balanced attack, efficient shooting, and defensive resilience solidified their victory.

In a competitive Region 16 women’s matchup from Friday evening, the 9th-ranked Lady Pirates secured a well-deserved victory against Jefferson College with a final score of 83-66. The game highlighted North Central Missouri’s offensive efficiency, particularly in a decisive third quarter where they outscored JeffCo 29-14.

Mary Copeland led NCMC in scoring with 16 points, showcasing dominance in the paint and contributing on both ends of the court. Tori Meinecke recorded 11 points and displayed rebounding prowess with five boards. Nateonia Russell and Jessica Reeter, the backcourt duo, combined for 21 points and showcased playmaking skills with a total of nine assists. Gladys Brown provided a spark off the bench with 13 points, contributing to the team’s depth.

Defensively, the Lady Pirates demonstrated discipline with only 16 personal fouls, limiting Jefferson’s offensive opportunities and forcing turnovers. Despite efforts from Josie Allen and Jakayla Kirk for Jefferson College, NCMC’s well-rounded performance secured the victory.

Next, the Lady Pirates will have a home game against Missouri Valley College JV on Tuesday at 5:30pm in the Ketcham Community Center.

In men’s basketball, the 16th-ranked North Central Missouri College squad emerged victorious against Jefferson College at home on Friday with a final score of 111-83. The game showcased NCMC’s exceptional shooting efficiency and well-rounded team performance, bringing their overall record to 14-4.

Tyler King led NCMC with 25 points, displaying scoring prowess and connecting from beyond the arc. Isaiah Reams contributed 18 points, showcasing versatility with four three-pointers. Joe Clark and Dampier Evans provided a solid foundation with a combined 16 points and significant contributions on the boards.

The bench played a crucial role in NCMC’s success, with Jon Carroll leading in scoring with 17 points. Mikey Thomas and Jakorie Terrill added valuable points and assists, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility.

The Pirates dominated the rebounding battle with a total of 29, highlighting their ability to control the glass. Excellent ball movement and teamwork were evident as they recorded 21 assists.

Despite a 20-point effort from Jaylen Boyd for Jefferson College, NCMC’s balanced and efficient offensive attack, combined with strong defensive play, secured their decisive victory over the Region 16 newcomer.