HICKORY, N.C. - Pima Community College stunned previously unbeaten Johnson County Community College on Friday, escaping with a 68-67 victory at the Tarlton Complex to snap the Cavaliers' perfect season.
Johnson County (34-1) had a chance in the closing seconds, but couldn't convert, as Pima held on to secure the one-point win in a tightly contested battle that featured 10 lead changes.
The Cavaliers were paced by Anonda Ford, who recorded a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Mia Adams chipped in 12 points, while Jade Warren added 12 off the bench. Layla Scott and Makenna Jennings each finished with eight points.
JCCC started strong, shooting 50 percent in the first quarter to take a 20-22 deficit into the second, but struggled offensively in the middle periods. The Cavaliers shot just 29.4 percent in the second quarter and 31.6 percent in the third, allowing Pima to maintain a narrow edge.
Pima (28-4) was led by Melicia Nelson, who poured in a game-high 22 points while adding 12 rebounds and eight assists in an all-around performance. Kiley Sours-Miller added 17 points, and the Aztecs controlled the interior, outscoring JCCC 40-24 in the paint.
Despite the shooting woes, Johnson County battled back in the second half. The Cavaliers outscored Pima 18-14 in the third quarter to take a 49-48 lead into the final period.
The fourth quarter turned into a back-and-forth affair. Pima shot a scorching 63.6 percent in the final frame and used timely baskets down the stretch to regain control. JCCC kept pace, shooting 53.8 percent in the quarter, but ultimately fell one point short.
Turnovers proved costly for both teams, as each committed 20, but Pima capitalized slightly better with a 21-18 edge in points off turnovers.
The loss marks the end of a perfect season for Johnson County, which had been one of the last unbeaten teams in the nation. They will play for third place Saturday against either Kirkwood or Illinois Central.




















































































































































































































