The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk women’s basketball team (21-11) dropped its opening-round matchup in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament on Monday, falling to Chattahoochee Valley Community College (CVCC), 70-53.
Early foul trouble and turnovers disrupted the Nighthawks’ rhythm throughout the first half, allowing CVCC to build a double-digit lead at the free throw line. Sophomore guards Khayla Garrett (Brownsboro, Texas) and Khyra Garrett (Brownsboro, Texas) helped steady NPC in the opening quarter with four points each, while freshman center Jaylin Finley (Malvern) powered her way inside for four points of her own. NPC trailed, 20-13, after the first 10 minutes.
The Pirates extended their momentum in the second quarter, outscoring NPC, 17-8. NPC struggled to hold on to the basketball, converting just four field goals as CVCC carried a 37-21 advantage into halftime.
NPC showed renewed energy in the third quarter, with sophomore guard Daisy Dollar (Mena) and sophomore center Landrey Richardson (Grannis) contributing five points apiece as the Nighthawks worked to cut into the deficit. CVCC, however, maintained control and entered the fourth quarter leading 54-36.
With their backs against the wall, the Nighthawks attacked the paint in the final period, earning multiple trips to the free throw line. Finley, sophomore forward Aaliyah Hollins (Nashville) and sophomore guard Ta’Keyla Williamson (Blevins) each knocked down multiple free throws. Despite the late push, NPC’s comeback effort was hindered by seven missed attempts at the line, and the Nighthawks were unable to close the gap in their first National Tournament appearance in program history.
With the loss, NPC moves into the consolation bracket, where the team can finish as high as fifth place in the nation. The Nighthawks return to action Wednesday, March 18 at 3 p.m.
The 2026 NJCAA Division 2 National Tournament will be streamed live by the NJCAA Network.
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