Chanute, KS- The Neosho County women's basketball team used a dominant second half to secure an 85-70 win over Kansas City Kansas Community College on Wednesday night.
After trailing 23-16 at the end of the first quarter and 40-32 at halftime, the Panthers flipped the switch in the third. Neosho erupted for 27 third-quarter points and followed with 26 more in the fourth to completely take control of the contest.
Laynie Winfrey led the charge with a game-high 21 points, knocking down five three-pointers to spark the Panther offense.
Chloe Parker added 12 points, while
Jaida Harris made her presence known on both ends, finishing with nine points and six rebounds to provide a steady inside impact.
Inside,
Bauke Graulus contributed six points and eight rebounds, and
Ta'Neah Jones added eight points and five boards.
Jessica Houston also battled on the glass, pulling down five rebounds to help the Panthers control second-chance opportunities.
Neosho forced 34 turnovers and finished with 17 steals, turning defensive pressure into scoring opportunities throughout the second half.
Sophia Mireles finished with seven points and four steals, and
Lelani Carter chipped in six points and four steals, helping fuel defensive pressure that shifted momentum in the second half
As a team, Neosho connected on 10 three-pointers and forced 17 steals, turning defense into offense during their second-half surge.
With the win, the Panthers are 15-8 overall and 5-1 in the KJCCC. Neosho will be at home on Saturday, February 7, to host Labette. Tip-off is set for 1:00 p.m. in Chanute.