Riviere and McPhaul Lead Raiders to Victory Over Pensacola
NICEVILLE, Fla. — Northwest Florida State women's basketball celebrated their final regular-season home game with an emphatic 89-56 victory over Pensacola, improving to 8-3 in conference play and boasting a stellar 10-2 record at home.
As the spotlight shone on the Raiders' sophomores in their farewell home game, Celia Riviere and Destiney McPhaul delivered standout performances, each showcasing career-best efforts. Riviere led the charge with a remarkable 29-point display, securing her seventh double-double of the season with 10 rebounds and six assists. McPhaul matched her career-high scoring record with 24 points, contributing six assists and five rebounds to the team's impressive performance.
The Raiders' collective shooting prowess was on full display, with a remarkable 61.4% shooting accuracy, including a solid 40.0% from beyond the arc. Defensively, they effectively controlled the Pirates' offense, limiting them to a 34.0% shooting rate, including 33.3% from three-point range. Additionally, Northwest Florida State dominated the boards, outrebounding their opponents by a staggering 14 rebounds.
With a guaranteed berth in the upcoming Region 8 Tournament, the victory serves as a valuable momentum boost for the team. However, their focus remains on securing a favorable seed in the tournament, currently holding the second spot in the Panhandle Conference standings. A pivotal matchup against Gulf Coast awaits them, offering an opportunity to vie for a share of the conference crown in Panama City next Saturday.
SUMMARY
The Raiders found themselves trailing early as Pensacola surged to an 11-4 lead within the first seven minutes, extending it to 11-4 with just under seven minutes remaining in the opening quarter. However, Northwest Florida State responded emphatically, embarking on a 14-1 scoring run to seize an 18-12 advantage with under four minutes left in the quarter. This lead persisted throughout the game as the Raiders' offense found its rhythm.
Entering the second quarter with a six-point lead, Northwest Florida State continued their offensive onslaught, initiating the period with an 11-0 run to push the lead to 35-19 with just under five minutes remaining in the half. Riviere and McPhaul traded baskets while the Raiders' defense stifled the Pirates' offensive efforts. By halftime, Northwest Florida State held a commanding 47-28 lead.
Despite Pensacola's hopes of a turnaround in the second half, Northwest Florida State maintained their offensive momentum, with Riviere and McPhaul leading the charge. By the end of the third quarter, the Raiders had amassed a 32-point lead, with both players reaching career-high scoring marks. The Raiders clinched an impressive 89-56 victory, securing their tenth home win of the season and keeping their postseason aspirations alive.
UP NEXT
The Raiders will wrap up their 2023-24 regular season this Saturday with a highly anticipated matchup against Gulf Coast in Panama City. Both teams are ranked in the top 10, setting the stage for an exciting showdown. A victory for the Raiders would earn them a share of the Panhandle Conference Championship, although they cannot clinch the title outright. On the other hand, a loss would grant Gulf Coast the undisputed championship. Tipoff is set for 2:00 PM (CST).