No. 10 Five Towns College Women’s Sound Basketball Shocks No. 1 Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, 72–65

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No. 10 Five Towns College Women's Sound Stun No. 1 Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, 72–65

Dix Hills, NY — In one of the most significant victories in program history, the No. 10 Women's Sound Basketball team from Five Towns College upset No. 1 Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, 72–65, in postseason play tonight. Bloomfield entered the matchup ranked #1 in the Week 11 national poll released by the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA), making the Sound's victory a defining statement on the national stage.

From the opening tip, Five Towns executed the game plan emphasized — defend with physicality, control the glass, and value every possession. The Sound outworked Bloomfield on the boards, forced key turnovers with relentless perimeter pressure, and delivered timely scoring runs in the second half. Five Towns' defensive rotations and disciplined half-court offense allowed them to maintain composure down the stretch. Clutch free-throw shooting in the final minutes sealed the 72–65 triumph.

Ihari Oromo was named Women's Conference Tournament Most Valuable Player by the North American Conference for Intercollegiate Athletics (NACIA) for her dominant all-around performance. Oromo controlled the paint defensively, altered shots, and secured critical rebounds on both ends of the floor. Offensively, she finished through contact and delivered second-chance points that shifted momentum. Her physical presence set the tone for the Sound throughout the contest. According to Coach Jacques, "Ihari's impact goes beyond numbers — she imposed her will on the game."

Five Towns College Standout Performances

Layla Ford – Strength & Aggressiveness

Ford attacked the game with force on every possession. She consistently drove into the lane, absorbing contact and finishing strong at the rim. Defensively, her physical on-ball pressure disrupted Bloomfield's rhythm. She battled relentlessly on the boards, contributing key rebounds in traffic. Coach Jacques credited her toughness as a catalyst for the team's energy.

Raine Mears – Clutch Performance

Mears delivered when it mattered most. She knocked down timely perimeter shots that halted Bloomfield runs. Her late-game free throws demonstrated poise under pressure. Mears also made smart decisions in transition, controlling tempo in critical moments. Coach Jacques praised her confidence, calling her "fearless in the biggest possessions."

Destiny Bishop – Leadership & Presence

Bishop commanded the floor with veteran composure. She organized offensive sets efficiently and communicated defensive switches. Her steady ball-handling minimized turnovers against Bloomfield's pressure. Bishop's vocal leadership kept teammates focused during momentum swings. Coach Jacques described her presence as "the heartbeat of our composure."

Ihari Oromo – Defense & Physicality

Oromo dominated defensively, protecting the rim and challenging every interior shot. She secured double-digit rebounds through sheer determination. Offensively, she converted put-backs and interior finishes through contact. Her strength in the paint wore down Bloomfield's frontline. Her MVP honor reflected her complete command of both ends of the floor.

Natavia Ross – Scrappy & Pestering

Ross applied suffocating ball pressure from baseline to baseline. She forced turnovers that translated directly into transition points. Her hustle plays — diving for loose balls and contesting passing lanes — energized the bench. Ross embraced the challenge of guarding top scorers. Coach Jacques applauded her relentless motor and defensive discipline.

Geormaya Davis – Composure & Fortitude

Davis remained calm in high-pressure situations. She made smart passes against defensive traps and maintained spacing within the offense. Her defensive awareness prevented easy scoring opportunities. Davis showed resilience after physical plays, immediately resetting and contributing. Coach Jacques highlighted her mental toughness as critical in preserving the lead.

Contributions from the Roster

Every player who saw minutes contributed to the victory with defensive discipline, energy, and commitment to the game plan. Those who did not enter the game remained engaged, providing vocal support and strategic awareness from the bench. Coach Jacques emphasized that preparation and unity across the entire roster made the difference against the nation's top-ranked team.

Bloomfield College Standouts

Bloomfield showcased why they held the No. 1 national ranking. Their backcourt applied consistent pressure and created transition opportunities that kept the contest competitive. Their interior players battled effectively on the glass and converted second-chance opportunities. Despite the loss, Bloomfield's discipline and athleticism reflected a championship-caliber program.

Gratitude & Acknowledgments

Five Towns College extends sincere appreciation to the North American Conference for Intercollegiate Athletics for organizing a first-class playoff experience and for launching the NACIA Network, which elevated the championship atmosphere. Special thanks to the Five Towns College Mass Communications Department — Holli Haerr, Brigette Boyle, Michael Peters, and Thomas Calandrillo — and their broadcast team, for their outstanding coverage and professionalism in showcasing this historic victory.

The College also recognizes Dr. David Cohen, President of Five Towns College and NACIA Chair to the Council of Presidents, for his continued leadership and commitment to student-athlete excellence. His vision for academic and athletic distinction continues to propel the institution forward with its second conference title in the 2025-2026 school year. 

With this historic 72–65 victory, Five Towns College solidifies its place among the nation's elite and demonstrates that the Sound are built for championship moments.