W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse – Neutral Site, March 10, 2026 – Mission University's Lady Patriots surged past Southwestern Christian University 81-74 in a thrilling NCCAA Central Regional semifinal, securing their spot in the championship game.
Pregame
Mission, the third overall seed in the tournament, entered the matchup at 15-16 overall. Southwestern Christian came in at 11-16. The winner would face top-seeded Sterling College in the Central Regional final, set for March 11 at 5:30 p.m. at W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse.
Game Summary
Mission set the tone immediately, opening the first quarter with a 32-14 run. Ireland Jones led the charge, scoring efficiently from beyond the arc and inside, while Hannah Maxwell controlled the glass with 14 rebounds. Tara Masten contributed with aggressive drives, helping Mission build a commanding lead.
In the second quarter, Mission continued to push the pace. Jones kept the offense humming with precise shooting, and Naomi Daugherty dominated the boards, collecting key offensive rebounds to generate second-chance points. By halftime, Mission led 47-27, maintaining momentum despite Southwestern Christian's efforts to slow the pace.
Southwestern Christian mounted a comeback in the third quarter, outscoring Mission 27-13, but the Lady Patriots' depth and balanced scoring kept them within striking distance. Miya Nieto and Maxwell hit timely shots, and Daugherty's rebounding remained critical to limiting second-chance opportunities.
In the fourth quarter, Mission executed with poise, combining transition baskets with smart ball movement. Jones, Masten, and Nieto hit key shots to preserve the lead, while Maxwell's defensive presence and rebounding helped seal the 81-74 victory. Mission showed resilience and composure, responding to every Southwestern run to advance to the championship.
Stat Leaders
Ireland Jones (Mission) – 26 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists
Naomi Daugherty (Mission) – 16 points, 16 rebounds
Tara Masten (Mission) – 14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
Hannah Maxwell (Mission) – 5 points, 14 rebounds
Postgame
With the victory, Mission University's Lady Patriots advance to the NCCAA Central Regional Championship against top-seeded Sterling College. Mission relied on balanced scoring, relentless rebounding, and clutch shooting from its starters to overcome Southwestern Christian's third-quarter surge. Jones' 26 points highlighted the team's offensive firepower, while Daugherty's 16 rebounds underscored the Patriots' control on the glass.
The Lady Patriots' depth was key, as Maxwell and Nieto contributed with critical rebounds and timely baskets. Mission's defense forced turnovers and limited second-chance opportunities, allowing them to withstand the Lady Eagles' late push. The team now carries momentum and confidence into the championship, where the winner earns a berth in the NCCAA National Tournament.
Next Up
Central Regional Championship: Mission University vs. Sterling College
Date/Time: March 11, 5:30 p.m.
Location: W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse (Neutral Site)
Stakes: Winner advances to NCCAA National Tournament
