Plainswomen Come Up Just Short in 76-72 Finish Against Otero

STERLING, Colo. — Northeastern Junior College built an early lead and held a slim advantage at halftime, but late fouls in the closing seconds proved costly as the Plainswomen dropped a 76-72 decision to Otero on Thursday night at the Bank of Colorado Event Center.

The Plainswomen controlled the tempo early, using balanced scoring and strong interior play to take a commanding lead in the opening half. Northeastern carried a 33-30 edge into the locker room, having dictated much of the first 20 minutes with efficient ball movement and work on the glass. Otero, however, gradually chipped away after the break and kept the contest within a single possession for most of the second half.

The game ultimately swung in the final minute. Northeastern managed to grab the lead with just over a minute to play, setting up a tense finish between the Region IX rivals. Otero answered and, with the Plainswomen forced to extend the game, a pair of fouls in the last 10 seconds allowed the visitors to convert free throws that stretched the margin to four points. The widened gap left Northeastern with too little time to respond, despite executing down the stretch to stay within striking distance.

Forward Daniela Garcia Gasco powered the Plainswomen offensively with an all-around performance, finishing with 19 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists. Her playmaking helped Northeastern establish its early lead and kept the offense steady as Otero mounted its comeback. Guard Monique Sena added 16 points, six rebounds and three assists, providing secondary scoring and toughness on the perimeter.

Northeastern also received a major lift on the boards from Riley Phelps, who turned in a double-double with 12 points and a career-high 13 rebounds. Phelps’ work in the paint was a key factor in limiting Otero to one shot on many possessions and in creating second-chance opportunities for the Plainswomen. In the backcourt, Madison Sepeda contributed 14 points and four assists, helping to initiate the offense and keep Northeastern organized late in the fourth quarter.

Defensively, the Plainswomen generated pressure throughout the night, highlighted by guard Veronica Baray’s activity in the passing lanes. Baray collected five steals, fueling transition chances and helping Northeastern set the tone early. While Otero ultimately capitalized on late free throws, the Plainswomen’s defensive effort kept the game within reach until the final possession.

Despite the narrow loss, Northeastern showcased depth and resilience, pushing Otero to the final seconds behind multiple double-double efforts and a strong defensive showing. The Plainswomen will look to build on the performance as they move deeper into February play, aiming to convert similar close-game opportunities into wins down the stretch of the conference schedule.