PASCO, Wash. — The Lane Titans (30-2, 14-2) secured their second consecutive NWAC Women's Basketball Championship and their seventh title in history by defeating the Umpqua Riverhawks (28-5, 13-3) with a final score of 62-49. The finale, held Sunday at Columbia Basin College and sponsored by Golf Universe, showcased the Titans' dominance in the league, particularly under the guidance of Head Coach Greg Sheley. This victory marks a historic moment as Lane becomes the first team to achieve back-to-back championships since their own success in 2006-07, underlining their status as the most decorated program in NWAC women's basketball history.
The championship match was the fourth encounter this season between the top two seeds from the South Region, with the Titans extending their winning record over the Riverhawks to three victories out of four games. Despite a closely contested first quarter, Lane pulled ahead significantly in the second quarter and maintained a comfortable lead for the remainder of the game.
Micah Wicks, named the Tournament's Most Valuable Player, led the Titans with her outstanding performance, scoring 25 points and contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Chloe Daniels and Emma McDonald also delivered commendable performances, ensuring a robust team effort that culminated in this momentous victory.
On the opposing side, Brooklyn Fely stood out for the Riverhawks, showcasing her skills with a remarkable 26-point and 12-rebound effort.
As the Titans conclude the season with a remarkable 30-win record, anticipation grows for their pursuit of an eighth title in the upcoming year. The championship also saw notable performances, earning Lane's Micah Wicks and Emma McDonald their well-deserved spots on the Women's All-Tournament Team, with Wicks securing the MVP title and McDonald recognized as the Most Inspirational Player.
Lane Community College educates over 15,000 students annually at six locations across Lane County and online. Students and alumni from all 50 states and 79 countries create more than an $675 million dollar impact on the local economy, helping to support more than 8,900 local jobs. Lane provides affordable, quality, professional technical and college transfer programs; business development and employee training; academic, language and life skills development; and lifelong personal development and enrichment courses.