Titans Surge Late in Game Against Centralia

CENTRALIA, Wash. — Tacoma Community College faced a tough 83-77 defeat against Centralia, fueled by a dominant second quarter from the hosts, who racked up 35 points to seize the lead. While Tacoma's defense snagged 13 steals, it wasn't quite enough to bridge the gap.

The game got underway with Centralia striking first as Jazmin Moctezuma nailed a three-pointer. Tacoma hit back with a layup from Tamairah Allen, courtesy of an assist by Laney Green. Green and Jasmeen Kaur kept Tacoma in the race, each landing a three-pointer to give the Titans an 8-5 edge. Centralia's Khloe Glover evened the score with her own three-pointer. Tacoma then surged ahead with a 10-0 run, led by Khalil Daniels and Kaur, building a nine-point cushion. Centralia fought back, with Mya Penswick's layup and a late jumper from Glover briefly putting them ahead. Ikunaday Filipe's layup gave Tacoma a slim 23-22 lead as the first quarter closed.

The second quarter saw Centralia take control, overwhelming Tacoma with a 35-13 run. Glover was instrumental, tying the game early and then pushing Centralia ahead with a series of layups and assists. Keiryn Mann further extended Centralia's lead with a crucial layup and a three-pointer. Despite efforts from Josephine Matau late in the quarter, Tacoma couldn't keep pace, heading into halftime with a significant deficit.

Centralia's dominance continued in the third quarter, stretching their lead to 26 points at one stage. Morning Sky Iron Moccasine and Glover kept Centralia's momentum going, despite Tacoma's attempts to rally with a three-pointer from Lanasha Lacy and another from Filipe. Tacoma managed to outscore Centralia 16-15 in this quarter but still faced an uphill battle.

In the final quarter, Lacy's back-to-back three-pointers ignited Tacoma's push, helping them outscore Centralia 25-11. Matau was a constant threat, including a critical layup. Yet, Centralia held firm, buoyed by Glover's timely three-pointer and layup. Mann sealed the victory with two free throws, wrapping up the game at 83-77.

Tacoma Top Performers

Jasmeen Kaur
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- 13 points
- 4 assists
- 2 steals

Khalil Daniels
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- 9 points
- 8 rebounds
- 4 steals

Lanasha Lacy
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- 19 points
- 17 rebounds
- 6 3-pointers

Josephine Matau
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- 14 points
- 7 rebounds
- 3 steals

Up next, TCC takes on Green River at home. The Titans will aim to protect their court and bounce back in Wednesday's matchup. Go Titans!