Strong Second Half Powers NWF to Victory Over Chipola
MARIANNA, Fla. – Northwest Florida State women's basketball (NWF) secured their 19th win of the season Wednesday night in Marianna following a second half come from behind victory over No. 25 Chipola, led by second-year guards Destiney McPhaul and Mya Pierfax.
The Raiders didn't get off to the start they were hoping for in the first half, especially defensively, after allowing the Indians to shoot 43.2% from the field, which allowed them to jump out to a nine-point lead (35-26) at the halfway point. Subsequently, the Raiders had trouble taking care of the ball during the first two quarters, turning it over 14 times, which allowed the Indians their lead. However, the team did manage to shoot 40.0% from the field, helping them stay within striking distance and setting them up for the solid second half they would eventually produce.
NWF got to work defensively in the third quarter, forcing Chipola to six turnovers while holding them to just three makes from the floor in the period. After only producing two points in the first half, Destiney McPhaul caught fire in the third period, scoring 17 of the Raiders' 27 third points in the quarter, which included four makes from three, giving her 19 for the game. This allowed the Raiders to retake the lead, jumping out to a five-point advantage (53-48) heading into the final frame.
From there, the rest of the team decided to get in on the action, including Mya Pierfax, who recorded 12 points in the fourth quarter alone, bringing her total to 15 for the contest. Deborah Davenport (11) and Kyla McBride (10) would also have strong scoring performances in the second half, each reaching the double-figure plateau. Davenport nearly notched her second double-double of the season after hauling in nine rebounds to go with her 11 points in the game.
The Raiders finished with an even 50.0% field goal percentage for the game, including a 52.9% clip from three, while sinking 82.4% of their free throw attempts. NWF also out-rebounded Chipola 32-23 on the boards and outgained the Indians 21-13 in the assist column.
This win is a huge momentum boost for a team coming off a tough road loss to No. 1 Gulf Coast in Panama City over the weekend. The Raiders move to 19-1 on the season and will look to carry this performance over into Saturday's contest when the team gets set to host Tallahassee for their second meeting in as many weeks.
UP NEXT
The Raiders will be back in action this Saturday, February 3, as they prepare to host Tallahassee for their second meeting between the Eagles this season. The Raiders took round one of the matchup, defeating the Eagles convincingly on their home court, 87-44. Tipoff for Saturday's contest is scheduled for 2:00 PM (CST)
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