Kansas City, Ks – The Neosho County Community College Lady Panthers are headed to the championship after a hard-fought 75–69 semifinal victory over Allen County Friday evening at Breidenthal Court in Kansas City.
Neosho (20–11) battled through a tight game that featured nine ties and multiple lead changes before pulling away late in the fourth quarter to secure the win and advance to Saturday’s championship game.
The first quarter set the tone as both teams traded baskets, ending the period tied at 15–15. Allen edged ahead slightly in the second quarter, taking a 29–26 lead into halftime.
Coming out of the break, the Lady Panthers found their rhythm. A strong third quarter, highlighted by clutch shooting from Chloe Parker, helped Neosho regain momentum. The Panthers outscored Allen 22–19 in the period and carried that energy into the fourth.
In the final quarter, Neosho took control behind big plays and steady free-throw shooting. The Panthers scored 27 points in the final period and closed the game at the line to seal the six-point victory.
Parker led the Panthers with an outstanding performance, scoring 26 points while knocking down four three-pointers and going 10-for-12 from the free-throw line.
Laynie Winfrey added 16 points, connecting on four three-pointers, including a pair of big shots in the fourth quarter that helped create separation.
Sophia Mireles filled the stat sheet with 8 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, helping control the pace of the game and create scoring opportunities for her teammates.
Jaida Harris contributed on the defensive end with 6 rebounds and 3 steals, while Bauke Graulus added 4 rebounds and key minutes in the paint. Off the bench, Dagmara Kacprazak chipped in 6 points, helping provide an offensive spark.
As a team, the Lady Panthers hit 10 three-pointers and shot 76% from the free-throw line, while also forcing turnovers and capitalizing on transition opportunities.
With the win, Neosho advances to the Region VI Division II Championship Game, where the Lady Panthers will face Johnson County on Saturday, March 7, with the title on the line.
