Johnson County Community College secured third place at the NJCAA D-II Women's Basketball Tournament, defeating Illinois Central College 77-68. The Cavaliers showcased a well-rounded offense and strong rebounding, improving their season record to 35-1. After maintaining a modest lead through the first half, Johnson County overcame a late challenge from Illinois Central, which finished the season at 32-5. Key performances included Kara Stricklin with 18 points and Makenna Jennings dominating the boards with 11 rebounds. This victory marks the seventh top-three national finish in the program's history, reinforcing the team's competitive legacy.

By the Numbers
  • Johnson County out-rebounded Illinois Central 50-39, securing 20 offensive rebounds.
  • The Cavaliers scored 19 second-chance points compared to Illinois Central's 8.
State of Play
  • The Cavaliers set the pace early, leading after the first quarter 17-14 and extending it to 40-29 at halftime.
  • Despite a spirited comeback by Illinois Central in the third quarter, Johnson County maintained its composure and matched their fourth-quarter scoring.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Johnson County aims to build on this successful season, potentially attracting new talent for next year鈥檚 roster. The continued development of players like Kara Stricklin and Makenna Jennings could enhance their competitive edge in the upcoming season.

Bottom Line

Johnson County鈥檚 balanced offensive attack combined with their rebounding prowess was crucial in securing their third-place finish, showcasing the depth and talent within their squad. This achievement serves as a testament to the program's continuous growth under head coach Ben Conard.