Minneapolis, MN -- The North Central University (NCU) women's basketball team returned to Clark-Danielson Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon and earned a strong 74–64 non-conference victory over Trinity Bible College, snapping a week-long road stretch with a complete team performance on both ends of the floor. Behind efficient early offense, active defensive pressure, and a clutch fourth-quarter push, the Rams controlled the flow and closed out the home win. Junior guard NiNi Davenport posted a career-high 21 points with 5 made three-point field goals to lead the way for NCU. 

North Central set the tone early with sharp ball movement and aggressive defense, jumping out to an early lead. Senior guard Lydia Schroeder opened the scoring with a finish inside, while NiNi Davenport knocked down an early three to ignite the home crowd. The Rams shot an impressive 62.5% from the field in the opening quarter and forced multiple turnovers that led to transition opportunities. Senior guard Brycelyn Brewster attacked the lane for finishes and assists, helping NCU build momentum and establish control. North Central closed the quarter with a Davenport triple, taking a 24-17 lead after one.

The Rams continued to apply pressure defensively in the second quarter, creating steals and capitalizing in transition. Brewster and senior guard Jackie Lindsay sparked a fast-break surge, while freshman forward Keiley Mahseet made her presence felt on the glass and at the free-throw line. NCU's defense held the visitors to just 12 points in the quarter, while balanced scoring kept the Rams comfortably in front. Despite a brief lull shooting-wise, North Central entered halftime with a 39-29 advantage.

The third quarter featured more physical play, with North Central leaning on its interior scoring and rebounding. Senior forward Moriah McLendon scored inside and battled on the boards, while Schroeder added a key three-pointer to halt a short run. Davenport continued to stretch the floor with her perimeter shooting, and NCU maintained composure despite shooting just 22.2% in the frame. The Rams held firm defensively and carried a 51-46 lead into the final quarter.

North Central delivered its best stretch when it mattered most, outscoring the opponent 23-18 in the final period. Davenport drilled a pair of crucial three-pointers, including a late dagger that pushed the lead back to multiple possessions. Brewster controlled the tempo, dishing out assists and converting free throws down the stretch, while Mahseet and McLendon combined for key finishes in the paint. The Rams sealed the win at the line, shooting 72.7% from the stripe in the quarter to secure the 74-64 victory.

Top Performers:

• NiNi Davenport: 21 points, 5 three-pointers, and 2 steals
• Lydia Schroeder: 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals
• Brycelyn Brewster: 13 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 7 steals

Looking Ahead:

Up next, North Central stays at home for another non-conference matchup as they host Greenville University on Monday, December 15th. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 PM inside Clark-Danielson Gymnasium.

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