Pierce women’s basketball ends a 16-game losing streak with a win against formidable division opponent Allan Hancock College Bulldogs (15-11), to get their first home win of the season on Saturday, Feb. 13.
Pierce College guard Nichelae Henderson had 32 points on the afternoon and sank one free throw in the final 30 seconds of regulation to seal the game in a 58-51 victory.
“We dug a lot deeper this time, and as captain I knew I had to step up and be able to take control when it needs to be taken,” Henderson said. “I didn’t want to lose, honestly. I saw we had six minutes left so I knew I had to dig deep to be able to win the game.”
The last time the two teams met was on Jan. 20 at Hancock College resulting in a loss for the Brahmas 46-53.
Brahmas head coach Jim Couch said the team had prepared differently than in their previous game.
“[The Brahmas played] almost the exact same game the last time and we came up short, we just worked on them mentally this time,” Couch said.
Forward Stephanie Gurrola, who came off the bench and had 2 points and 5 rebounds, said she does other things besides scoring points to help her team.
“I like getting assists, I’m more of a hustler. I like to move the ball around. If it takes me not shooting the ball then I won’t. Whatever it takes to win the game,” Gurrola said.
Bulldogs Kelly McClain scored about one third of the team’s total points. During the second quarter the Bulldogs scored 18 points and held the Brahmas to just 9.
“It’s been a rough season,” Couch said. “This game probably put the icing on the cake with them learning how to finish.”
With the victory the Brahmas improve to 3-18 on the season with only two games remaining.
The Brahmas will face off against the Oxnard Condors (14-8) in their next game at home on Wednesday, Feb. 17 at 5:00 p.m.
