Five Towns College Women Rally Past Cheyney University for 63-59 Conference Victory

Five Towns College Women Rally Past Cheyney University for 63-59 Conference Victory

Dix Hills, NY – January 24, 2026 – The Five Towns College women's basketball team used a dominant second-half surge to defeat Cheyney University 63-59 in conference action Saturday afternoon at home, improving to 7-8 on the season.

After trailing 34-22 at halftime, the Sound responded with a 24-point third quarter to swing momentum and take control of the contest. Five Towns tightened up defensively, forcing 26 turnovers and collecting 18 steals in a relentless defensive effort.

Leading the way was Layla Ford, who delivered a monster performance on the glass with 20 rebounds — including 13 offensive boards — while adding 11 points. Her relentless work inside created second-chance opportunities that proved critical in the comeback victory.

"Layla was everywhere," said the Five Towns head coach. "Twenty rebounds, especially 13 offensive, changes a game. Her effort and toughness gave us extra possessions and sparked our second-half run."

Ihari Oromo paced the offense with 14 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double, while Des Bishop added 13 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 steals in an all-around performance. Raine Mears contributed 13 points, knocking down three key three-pointers, and Danica Robles orchestrated the offense with 8 assists and 5 steals.

Five Towns dominated the boards 57-58 (24 offensive rebounds) and outscored Cheyney 41-25 in the second half. The Sound also converted 68.8% from the free-throw line, including timely makes down the stretch to seal the win.

Cheyney was led by Taniyah Finney's 20 points and Saniyah Washington's 14 points and 10 rebounds, but the visitors shot just 22.2% in the fourth quarter as Five Towns' defensive pressure closed the door.

With the comeback victory, the Sound continue to build momentum in conference play as they head into the final stretch of the season.