The Chattahoochee Valley Community College (CVCC) Lady Pirates concluded an impressive season at the NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball National Tournament in Joplin, Missouri. The team’s journey ended in a dramatic overtime battle on Wednesday, falling just short in a 79-77 heartbreaker against North Central Missouri College.
The Lady Pirates kicked off the tournament strong with a commanding win over Bryant & Stratton (Va.) College on Monday. Despite a tough loss to Lincoln Land Community College on Tuesday, CVCC battled back in the consolation bracket, where they narrowly missed advancing after the overtime thriller against North Central Missouri.
Sophomore standout Gabrielle Pass led the Lady Pirates offensively throughout the tournament, racking up 46 points across the three games. Zy Thompson added 38 points, while Aaliyah Younger contributed 30 points, showing the depth and determination of the squad.
Both Thompson and Younger received All-Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC) honors this season for their outstanding play. Head Coach Joe Richardson was also recognized as the ACCC Division II Coach of the Year, a testament to the leadership that propelled the Lady Pirates to the national stage.
“This team showed incredible heart and perseverance all season long,” said Coach Richardson. “I’m proud of the fight they put up in every game and the way they represented CVCC on the national level.”
The Lady Pirates’ appearance in the national tournament caps off a season filled with growth, grit, and recognition — setting a new standard for women’s basketball at Chattahoochee Valley.
