The Mohawk Valley Community College women's basketball team delivered a strong all-around performance on the road February 18, defeating Hudson Valley Community College 77-59 at the McDonough Sports Complex.

The Hawks (12-9 overall, 6-4 conference) set the tone early, erupting for 29 points in the first quarter to take a commanding 29-15 lead. After Hudson Valley trimmed the margin slightly in the second quarter, MVCC responded with efficient shooting in the second half to pull away for good.

MVCC shot an impressive 51.7 percent from the field, highlighted by a blistering 66.7 percent effort in the third quarter. The Hawks also dominated the glass, outrebounding the Vikings 33-28, including 13 offensive rebounds that led to key second-chance opportunities.

Shayla Baker led a balanced scoring attack with 18 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists in a near triple-double performance. Felise Fowler added 19 points, knocking down four three-pointers and going 5-for-6 from the free throw line. Takyla Vaughn was a force inside with 18 points and eight rebounds, while Leniyah Leslie contributed 14 points, six steals, and four assists.

Defensively, the Hawks created havoc, forcing 33 turnovers and collecting 23 steals. Leslie and Baker each recorded six steals, while Tiara Smith added four.

Hudson Valley (9-11, 3-6) was led by Gracemary Baumann's 17 points and Sanaiya Adams' 12, but the Vikings were unable to overcome MVCC's fast start and defensive pressure.

With the win, the Hawks will wait to hear the seeding results for the NCJAA Region III Tournamnet held in Watertown, NY at Jefferson Community College. The tournament takes place from 2/27-3/1. For more information please visit: https://www.njcaaregion3.org/sports/wbkb/index