Minneapolis, MN -- The North Central University (NCU) women's basketball team capped off 2025 with a 84-75 home victory to close out non-conference play at the Clark-Danielson Gymnasium. Coming off the holiday break, the Rams delivered a balanced, high-energy performance on both ends of the floor, using depth, ball movement, and defensive pressure to control the game from start to finish.
North Central wasted little time settling in, answering an early deficit with an aggressive transition attack and strong interior play. Senior guard
Brycelyn Brewster sparked the Rams with early free throws and finishes in the paint, while junior guard
NiNi Davenport helped stretch the defense. NCU shot 55.6% from the field in the opening quarter and capitalized on turnovers to build momentum, closing the period ahead 24-20.
The Rams leaned into their depth in the second frame, with the bench providing an immediate spark. Senior guard
Jackie Lindsay knocked down timely three-pointers, and graduate guard
Kaye Serapio attacked the rim in transition to keep the offense flowing. Despite a brief scoring lull, North Central's defensive pressure forced turnovers and limited clean looks. The Rams maintained control heading into halftime with a 40-34 advantage.
NCU came out of the locker room firing, delivering its most efficient offensive stretch of the game. Senior guard
Lydia Schroeder caught fire from beyond the arc, while Davenport continued to pace the backcourt. North Central shot 55.6% from three in the quarter and pushed the tempo to generate fast-break points. The Rams extended their lead by consistently converting turnovers into offense, ending the third quarter in front 63-56.
With the game tightening early in the fourth, North Central responded with poise. Senior forward
Moriah McLendon finished strong inside, while Brewster controlled the glass and knocked down crucial free throws down the stretch. The Rams closed the game shooting 75.0% from the free-throw line in the final period and continued to pressure defensively, forcing late turnovers to seal the win. North Central finished the afternoon with 24 points off turnovers and 20 fast-break points, pulling away for the 84-75 victory.
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Looking Ahead:
Up next, North Central opens conference play at home against the University of Wisconsin–Superior on Wednesday, January 7th, with tip-off scheduled for 5:30 PM inside the Clark-Danielson Gymnasium.
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