The women’s basketball team from State Fair Community College secured its 20th consecutive victory on March 15, 2025, defeating the Mineral Area College Cardinals 68-62 in a closely contested match in Park Hills, Missouri. The Roadrunners, ranked 12th nationally, faced a resilient challenge from the Cardinals, who managed to tie the game twice in the second half.
State Fair’s defense proved pivotal, forcing 20 turnovers while committing only 11 themselves. Despite allowing a significant comeback, the Roadrunners held onto their unbeaten record, improving to 20-0 overall and 5-0 in regional play.
In the first quarter, State Fair established a solid foundation, leading by as much as 14 points. The Cardinals fought back, showing intensity and determination. Key plays by Ellie Buscher, who scored 15 points and grabbed seven rebounds, and Chloe Reed, who made critical late-game shots, helped the Roadrunners maintain their advantage.
Cardinals Make Late Push
The game intensified in the fourth quarter as Mineral Area, led by Mariah Dallas, who scored a game-high 18 points, rallied to tie the score at 50-50 with just under nine minutes left. Dallas’s efforts in the paint and a solid rebounding performance kept the Cardinals competitive.
Despite their efforts, the Cardinals struggled with their shooting, finishing just 2-of-18 from beyond the arc. P.J. Reutzel and Presley Holweg each contributed with timely three-pointers, bringing the team close. Yet, it was the Roadrunners’ composure under pressure that ultimately decided the game.
After Dallas tied the score again with a basket, State Fair responded with a crucial layup from Sophia Edwin, followed by a three-pointer from Reed that extended their lead to seven points with just 19 seconds remaining.
Key Performances and Statistics
Beyond Buscher and Reed, the Roadrunners saw contributions from Carolyn Foster and Taylor Wilson, who both added nine points. Wilson’s early scoring helped establish the Roadrunners’ lead, while Foster’s defensive efforts were instrumental in critical moments.
Mineral Area’s Holweg recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, demonstrating hustle despite some turnover struggles. The Cardinals capitalized on their free-throw opportunities, converting 16-of-24 attempts, but their inability to consistently hit from long range proved costly.
As the season progresses, both teams face crucial upcoming matches. State Fair will prepare for a marquee showdown against Three Rivers on Tuesday, while the Cardinals will return to regional play against Wabash Valley on Wednesday.
The competitive spirit displayed on the court reflects the growing intensity of the NJCAA women’s basketball season, as teams continue to vie for position and prestige.
