Southwestern Community College women's basketball put together its most complete performance in recent weeks Monday night, pulling away from Peru State College JV for a 63–42 victory at the Southwestern Student Center.
The Spartans set the tone defensively from the opening tip and gradually built control of the game. After a low-scoring first half, Southwestern found its rhythm on both ends of the floor in the third quarter, outscoring Peru State 22–10 to seize momentum and create separation. The Spartans followed with a strong fourth quarter to close out the win.
Jaide McPhee led all scorers with 22 points while adding seven rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks in a well-rounded effort. Jordyn Hall provided a steady presence in the backcourt, finishing with 19 points, five rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Maddie Richter added six points and three steals, while LaiLah Austin chipped in six points and seven rebounds off the bench.
Southwestern's defense was the difference throughout the night. The Spartans limited Peru State to 25.4 percent shooting from the field and forced 17 turnovers, turning defensive stops into transition opportunities during the decisive third quarter run. They pushed the pace and shared the ball well.
The Spartans also controlled the glass, holding a 35–33 rebounding edge, and finished with 13 assists on 28 made field goals as the offense became more fluid in the second half.
Coach Zarzutzki praised her team's hard work, "I'm proud of our team and the fight they showed, especially second half! They are working hard every day in practice and it's good to see that show. We are heading in a positive direction."
With the win, Southwestern improves to 4–15 overall and carries positive momentum into its next ICCAC road test Wednesday at Northeast Community College.