OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – The No. 1-ranked Johnson County Community College women's basketball team tipped off its 2025-26 campaign in strong fashion over the weekend, earning a pair of victories at the Highland Classic.

The Cavaliers edged NJCAA Division I Murray State College, 70-65, on Friday night before rolling past Central Community College, 99-61, on Saturday afternoon.

In the opener, Murray State started fast and held a 17-13 advantage after the first quarter. JCCC responded with an 18-10 surge in the second to take a 31-27 lead at halftime, then exploded for a 25-6 third-quarter run to stretch the margin to 63-33. The Aggies battled back with 32 fourth-quarter points but came up short as the Cavaliers held on for the win.

Freshman guard Anonda Ford paced the Cavaliers with 22 points, hitting 6-of-9 shots from the field, including two 3-pointers, and 8-of-12 at the foul line. She also grabbed seven rebounds and made three steals

Fellow freshman guard Jade Warren added 15 points on 6-of-7 shooting, while sophomore All-America guard Layla Scott and freshman guard Mia Adams contributed 13 and 12 points respectively.

The Aggies were led by Anaih Richard with 17 points.

The Cavaliers showcased their depth in Saturday's 38-point rout of Central, placing six players in double figures. Adams and Warren led the way with 15 points apiece, followed by Scott with 14 and freshman guard Korrie Holcer and freshman forward Layla Barnes each adding 12 points. Sophomore forward Karlee Ellick pulled down a team-high 11 rebounds to go along with six points.

Johnson County host its home opener on Tuesday, November 4 against Bethany College JV. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.