MORRIS, NJ — It was certainly a great weekend for Mustangs basketball. Not to be outdone by the Region championship-winning Men’s team, the Monroe Women’s team handed down a dramatic 81-41 defeat over Dean College on Sunday afternoon and, in doing so, earned themselves the designation of Region XV champions — again. The win secured their second consecutive Region title since becoming a NJCAA Division II team, and propelled them to this weekend’s District Championship in Morris, NJ.
Sophomore point guard Karen Bellamy led the team in their victory over Dean, scoring 13 points and dishing out four assists. Freshman Troniqua Black enjoyed a great game defensively with 10 rebounds and three blocks, while freshman guard Shania Johnson scored a notable 12 points off the bench. Also contributing 12 points, sophomore Linda Ulasi’s seven rebounds and two steals are not to be overlooked.
The previous day’s semi-finals win over CCRI had advanced the Mustangs to the Region XV finals, thanks to a final score of 75-48. Though this triumph was truly the outcome of an outstanding team effort, guard Breana Bey’s contribution of 18 points with two blocks and two steals played an integral role in sealing the deal. Shania Johnson’s shooting abilities were also on display; coming off the bench she finished with 10 points.
The 23-8 Monroe Women’s team now begins their bid for the District Championship, facing 19-11 Lackawanna College this Saturday, March 7, at 7:00 p.m. If the Mustangs win this game, they advance to the National Championship Tournament to be held in Overland Park, KS from March 17-21.