Lacy Shines With 26 Points Despite Loss to Centralia

TACOMA, Wash. — Tacoma fell to Centralia, 78-71, with Centralia pulling ahead in the second quarter with a 16-point lead. TCC's bench contributed 34 points, but the team was unable to overcome Centralia's 40 points in the paint.

The first quarter started with a tightly contested battle between Tacoma and Centralia. Morning Sky Iron Moc put Centralia on the scoreboard with two free throws at 8:42, giving them an early lead. TCC responded with a three-pointer from Lanasha Lacy, assisted by Ikunaday Filipe, to take the lead 3-2. The home team maintained a lead throughout much of the quarter, with Filipe contributing four points from free throws and a jumper. Centralia's Keiryn Mann tied the game at 16 with a layup at 0:29, but a foul by Morning Sky Iron Moc allowed Tamairah Allen to convert a free throw as time expired, giving Tacoma a narrow 17-16 lead at the end of the quarter.

Centralia extended their lead in the second quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and efficient shooting. Abi Lundblad's layup at 9:28 and a three-pointer by Jazlyn Corpuz at 7:49 helped Centralia establish a 12-point advantage, the largest of the quarter. Tacoma's Jasmeen Kaur contributed a three-pointer at 9:06, but Centralia's defense forced multiple turnovers, limiting Tacoma's scoring opportunities. Keiryn Mann's layup at 1:15 capped off a strong finish for Centralia, who outscored TCC 32-19 in the quarter.

Centralia maintained their lead throughout the third quarter, extending it to 16 points at one stage. Mya Penswick was active early, converting a pair of free throws just 11 seconds into the quarter. Tacoma responded as Kaur scored a layup at 7:04, assisted by Lacy, but Centralia quickly countered with a layup from Penswick. Despite Tacoma's effort, including Kaur's strong free-throw performance, Centralia's Keiryn Mann closed the quarter with a layup to keep Centralia ahead. Centralia outscored Tacoma 14-17 in this quarter, keeping a firm hold on the game.

In a tense fourth quarter, Centralia maintained their lead to secure a 78-71 victory over TCC. Lanasha Lacy was pivotal for Tacoma, contributing three consecutive three-pointers in the early minutes, narrowing the gap to 65-62. Filipe bolstered Tacoma's efforts with a layup assisted by Cherish Parham at 5:12, tightening the score further to 69-66. However, Morning Sky Iron Moc's three-pointer and layup in the final minute extended Centralia's advantage, sealing their win.

Tacoma Top Performers

Jasmeen Kaur
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- 16 points
- 9/12 free throws made
- 5 steals

Lanasha Lacy
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- 26 points
- 8 3-pointers
- 6 rebounds

Ikunaday Filipe
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- 18 points
- 6/9 field goals made
- 4 assists

In their next game, Tacoma will face Green River on Thursday, Jan. 15 at Green River.

Go Titans!