The atmosphere in Keeter Gym was electric, a testament to the passion of the home crowd. College of the Ozarks, the host team, had the arena buzzing, but the visiting Mission University Patriots were determined to spoil the party. However it was the home team that would prevail. In a display of championship caliber basketball, the College of the Ozarks Bobcats, the tournament's second seed, captured their second NCCAA Division I Women's Basketball National Championship in three years, defeating the top-seeded Mission University Patriots 75-62.
This victory, achieved on their own court, was a statement of dominance. It was a testament to the Bobcats' resilience and their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
The game began with a touching moment of sportsmanship. Mission's Brooklyn Luna, displaying remarkable courage despite a semifinal injury, scored the opening basket. The crowd responded with applause, a moment of unity in a fiercely competitive environment. College of the Ozarks quickly answered, signaling that they were not about to relinquish their home-court advantage.
The first quarter was a tense battle, with both teams trading blows. College of the Ozarks established an early lead, but Mission, fueled by Cassidy Hambelton's sharp shooting and Josie Sullivan's long-range accuracy, surged ahead. Susanna Moran, the Bobcats' powerful presence in the paint, began to assert herself, keeping the home team within striking distance.
The second quarter saw the Bobcats seize control. A decisive 14-2 run, highlighted by Avery Arnold's clutch three-pointers and Logan Jones's versatile play, put College of the Ozarks firmly in the driver's seat. Blythe Benefield's play making was also a key part of the bobcats success.
Mission, refusing to back down, mounted a comeback attempt in the third quarter. Josie Sullivan continued her impressive shooting, and Ireland Jones added crucial layups. However, the Bobcats, led by Moran's dominant presence and Benefield's steady hand, maintained their advantage.
The fourth quarter was a pressure cooker. Mission, desperate to close the gap, unleashed a barrage of three-pointers, but the Bobcats remained composed. Key defensive stops and clutch baskets, especially from Moran, sealed the victory.
In the end, it was the College of the Ozarks Bobcats who emerged victorious. They had defended their home court and claimed the national championship. Benefield's 20 points, seven rebounds, and three steals, along with Moran's double-double of 15 points and 15 rebounds, were the driving forces behind the victory. The Bobcats demonstrated a championship pedigree, proving they are a force to be reckoned with and earned their second NCCAA title.
