BALTIMORE, MD – The Harford Fighting Owls women's basketball team delivered another statement performance last Friday night, dismantling Allegany College of Maryland 84-47 at host Baltimore City Community College to win the NJCAA Region 20 Division I title for the first time since the 2018-2019 season. From the opening tip, Harford imposed its will on both ends of the court, using an explosive first quarter to set the tone for a lopsided victory.
Madison Nimmo (C. Milton Wright) was named tournament MVP and Eshe Knox (Western) and Rakayla Ramcharran (Mount Vernon, N.Y.) earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team.
"It feels great to win a regional championship with this group," said head coach Marvin Evans. "We had goals and a plan from day one and [this group] trusted me and believed in themselves. [They] worked hard towards the goals the entire season."
Fast Start vs. Trojans Fuels Fighting Owl's Commanding Lead
The Fighting Owls wasted no time asserting their dominance, erupting for 26 first-quarter points while stifling Allegany to just 10. Nimmo led the charge early, knocking down multiple three-pointers to ignite the offense. Harford's defense was relentless, forcing turnovers and converting them into fast-break opportunities.
By halftime, the Fighting Owls had extended their lead to 41-18, thanks to continued offensive efficiency and lockdown defensive pressure. Knox controlled the tempo from the backcourt, pushing the pace and finding open teammates for easy buckets.
"The biggest thing I told them [before the game] was I wanted them to go out there and just ball!" Evans said. "The plays and schemes ar what they are, but I really wanted them to just ball and have fun. And they did just that; the energy was amazing!"
Nimmo and Knox Lead Explosive Offense
Nimmo delivered a sensational performance, pouring in a game-high 29 points while draining six three-pointers. She also contributed six rebounds and seven steals, wreaking havoc on both ends of the floor.
Knox provided a perfect complement to Nimmo's scoring prowess, tallying 21 points, eight rebounds, and eight steals while constantly attacking the basket and getting to the free-throw line. Charlie Henry (Perry Hall) and Alex Mann (New Town) added eight points apiece, with Mann controlling the glass and securing 12 rebounds to give Harford second-chance opportunities. Mann was just two points shy of her second double-double of the season.
Harford's Defense Smothers Allegany
While the Fighting Owls' offense was firing on all cylinders, their defensive intensity was equally impressive. Harford forced numerous Allegany turnovers, turning defensive stops into transition buckets. Harford racked up an 28 steals, showcasing their quick hands and disciplined positioning.
Despite Allegany's best efforts to find an offensive rhythm, Harford's defensive pressure never wavered. The Fighting Owls held Allegany to just 12 points in the third quarter, ensuring the game remained out of reach. Mann and Ramcharran combined for 19 rebounds, with the latter registering two blocks.
Closing Out in Dominant Fashion
Harford continued its relentless attack in the fourth quarter, outscoring Allegany 21-17 to close out the dominant victory. With the game well in hand, the Fighting Owls maintained their energy and execution, finishing strong and securing another resounding win.
Harford's season came to an end the next day in the NJCAA East District Championship with a 67-54 loss to Monroe University. However, the Fighting Owl's amazing turnaround and season-long grit and determination should not be undersold. Look for Harford to continue making noise in the region during the 2025-2026 season.
"One of this team's biggest accomplishments was overcoming adversity," Evans said. "We had many obstacles throughout the season that we were able to overcome. From injuries to sicknesses, off the court life situations and everything in between. The tam that we started with in August was able to stay together, grow grogether and win a championship together in March!"
