TCC Shows Strong Defense Despite Loss to Everett

TACOMA, Wash. — Tacoma fell to Everett, 59-39, despite a strong defensive effort that included seven blocks.

Tacoma started the game with an early lead thanks to a layup by Laney Green, assisted by Ikunaday Filipe. However, Everett quickly responded, with Kelsee Hunt scoring a layup to tie the game. Selena Espinoza's three-pointer at 8:23 gave Everett the advantage, which they maintained throughout the quarter. Tacoma struggled with turnovers, committing 10, while Everett capitalized on their opportunities, with Jordan Hentel contributing significantly to their offensive efforts. Despite Tacoma's efforts to close the gap, Everett finished the first quarter ahead, 19-14, after Espinoza added two free throws in the final seconds.

In a closely contested second quarter, Everett edged out Tacoma, 13-12, maintaining a narrow lead. Brynn Meno opened the quarter with two successful free throws for Everett, who saw contributions from multiple players, including a key layup by Myah Galdeira at the 5:36 mark. Lanasha Lacy kept TCC competitive with a three-pointer, assisted by Filipe, narrowing the gap. Despite TCC briefly taking the lead with a layup from Green at 6:34, Everett regained control with Hentel's layup, eventually closing the quarter with a free throw to lead 32-26 at halftime.

Everett dominated the third quarter with a strong offensive performance, outscoring TCC 18-5. Galdeira was instrumental, hitting three 3-pointers, including a key shot at 9:42 that extended Everett's lead. TCC struggled to convert their opportunities, managing only two baskets and a free throw in the quarter. Everett maintained defensive pressure, forcing multiple turnovers and keeping TCC at bay, concluding the quarter leading 50-31.

Everett maintained their lead in the fourth quarter, opening with a layup by Meno at 9:40, pushing the score to 52-31. Tacoma's Kristina Tillman faced difficulties, committing multiple turnovers and missed shots, which were countered by defensive rebounds from Everett's Espinoza. TCC's Green managed to add two free throws at 6:48, narrowing the gap slightly. However, Everett's Meno responded with a three-pointer assisted by Jasmine Germain, extending their lead to 55-33. Despite a late three-pointer from Filipe for TCC, Everett's lead was firmly secured with a final score of 59-39.

Tacoma Top Performers

Laney Green
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- 14 points
- 5/8 field goals made
- 5 rebounds
- 2 blocks

Ikunaday Filipe
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- 9 points
- 3 blocks
- 5 rebounds
- 2 assists

Lanasha Lacy
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- 6 points
- 2/3 3-pointers
- 5 rebounds
- 1 block

Go Titans!