Game 2 Recap:
The NAIT Ooks women's basketball team responded in a big way on day two of the CCAA National Championship, earning a 74–56 victory over the STU Tommies in the bronze quarterfinal on Thursday in Montréal.
After a slow start that saw the Tommies take an 18–15 lead after the first quarter, the Ooks quickly found their rhythm in the second. NAIT delivered a dominant 26–17 frame to take control of the game, heading into halftime with a 41–35 advantage.
Both teams traded baskets in a quieter third quarter, finishing even at 9–9, as the Ooks maintained their lead heading into the final frame.
NAIT saved their best for last.
The Ooks exploded in the fourth quarter, outscoring STU 24–12 to pull away and secure the win, showcasing their depth, composure, and ability to close out when it mattered most.
Payton Neilson led the charge and was named NAIT's Player of the Game after a standout 23-point performance. Mikah Reed and Makayla Rose each added 14 points in a balanced offensive effort.
With the win, the Ooks remain firmly in the hunt for a national medal and will continue their push through the backdoor bronze bracket. NAIT returns to the court tomorrow in the bronze semifinal at 5:00 PM MST.
Game 1 Recap:
The NAIT Ooks women's basketball team opened their CCAA National Championship run with a quarterfinal matchup against the Géants de Saint-Jean, ultimately falling 66–43 on Wednesday afternoon in Montréal.
NAIT came out strong to start the contest, setting the tone early and taking a 15–12 lead after the first quarter. The Ooks showed confidence on both ends of the floor, matching the RSEQ champions with physical play and disciplined execution.
However, momentum shifted in the second quarter as Saint-Jean found their rhythm offensively, outscoring NAIT 20–10 to take a 32–25 lead into halftime.
The third quarter proved to be the difference-maker, with the Géants extending their lead through a 21–9 run. Despite continued effort from the Ooks, they were unable to close the gap in the final frame, where Saint-Jean edged NAIT 13–9 to secure the win.
Mikah Reed led the way for the Ooks with a strong all-around performance, finishing with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. She was named NAIT's Player of the Game for her efforts.
Payton Neilson added 10 points, while Rory Vandermeer contributed 8 in the loss.
Despite the setback, the Ooks remain in medal contention and will shift their focus to the backdoor bronze bracket. NAIT returns to the court tomorrow morning in the bronze quarterfinal, where they will face the STU Tommies at 11:00 AM MST.
CCAA Nationals Preview:
The NAIT Ooks women's basketball team is set to take the national stage as they travel to Montréal, Québec for the CCAA Women's Basketball National Championship, hosted by Dawson College from March 18–21.
All games will take place at the Tony Proudfoot Gymnasium, the long-time home of the Dawson Blues Athletics program. Located in the heart of downtown Montréal, the facility features three full-size gymnasiums, seating for approximately 1,000 spectators, dedicated team areas, locker rooms, athletic therapy services, and the infrastructure to support a high-performance national championship environment.
Founded in 1969, Dawson College is one of Québec's leading English-language CEGEPs and has been a proud member of the CCAA since 1974. With a strong tradition in women's basketball and extensive experience hosting major collegiate events, Dawson provides an ideal setting for this year's championship.
The Ooks open their tournament run in the CCAA Quarterfinal on March 18 at 1:00 PM MST, where they will face the host Géants de Saint-Jean. With the national spotlight on and everything on the line, NAIT will look to bring their energy, discipline, and resilience to the court as they begin their pursuit of a national medal.
Fans can follow along with all the action and updates throughout the tournament as the Ooks represent NAIT on the national stage.