Sikeston wins 70-42 over NMCC in RiverBend Shootout

NEW MADRID, Mo. — Employing a stifling man-to-man defense that stifled, the Sikeston girls’ basketball team cruised to a commanding 70-42 victory over New Madrid County Central at the RiverBend Shootout on Saturday, Nov. 25.

The Lady Bulldogs (1-3) suffocating defense was the cornerstone of their victory, disrupting the Lady Eagles’ (0-3) offensive rhythm and forcing turnovers that fueled a fast-break offense.

"We played with a defensive intensity and earned a good win,” said Sikeston coach Vaughn Shephard. “We still had some mistakes but we were able to pressure them. We forced some turnovers and we were able to get some finishes. Mixing it up on the defensive end allowed us to open our game up and throw them off track. It went well because we adjusted in all aspects of the game.”

Sikeston's Kennedi Sims (2) competes at the Sikeston Jamboree at the Field House on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Landri Hammontree and Kennedi Sims unleashed an offensive barrage, forming an overwhelming tandem.

Hammontree, a sharpshooting menace, drained a game-high 20 points, while Sims, a versatile guard, slashed through the Lady Eagles' defense for another 18 points.

“They’re a dynamic duo who elevate each other's game,” Shephard said. “Their chemistry creates opportunities for our open players to shine, allowing everyone to contribute their strengths. When these two are firing on all cylinders, the entire team lifts to a higher level because they provide a foundation for success."

NMCC's Destiny Hughes (11) competes at the Sikeston Jamboree at the Field House on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Marlie Crook established herself as a force in the paint, converting opportunities with a noteworthy 15-point performance. Her imposing stature challenged NMCC's defense.

Crook effectively positioned herself for rebounds, securing the ball with authority and finishing with some solid post moves.

“She did a good job at finishing her shots, getting up and down the court and working the middle for us,” Shephard said. “She also stayed out of foul trouble.”

Sikeston's Alex Segers (20) competes at the Sikeston Jamboree at the Field House on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Sikeston's supporting cast stepped up to provide valuable contributions. Alex Segers scored eight points, Kelly Coaker, a tenacious defender and rebounding specialist, added four points, while Ja'Naye Moore contributed four points of her own.

Faith Calvin, a relentless hustler, provided energy and intensity, disrupting passing lanes and securing loose balls.

“[Calvin] helps us get a bunch of extra possessions with her rebounding ability,” Shephard said. “I know those hustle plays don’t go in the book, but she contributes with energy and hard work.”

NMCC's leading scorer was freshman Kyrstin Gordan with 18 points; Aubrey Aycock added 11 points, while MaKaylin Ranson and Destiny Hughes chipped in seven and six, respectively.

The team will face off again in the consolation bracket of the SEMO Conference Tournament at NMCC High School on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 8:30 p.m.

__SIKESTON 70, NMCC 42__

Sikeston 25 12 12 21 — 70

NMCC 8 15 10 9 — 42

Sikeston (70) — Landri Hammontree 20, Kennedi Sims 18, Marlie Crook 15, Alex Segers 9, Kelly Coaker 4, Ja/Naye Moore 4. FG: 24. FT: 18-28. F: 19. (3-pointers: Hammontree 2, Sims 2. Fouled outL none).

NMCC (42) — Kyrstin Gordan 18, Aubrey Aycock 11, MaKaylin Ranson 7, Destiny Hughes 6. FG: 19. FT: 3-17. F: 22. (3-pointers: Aycock 1. Fouled out: Gordan, Ranson).