Ladyjays celebrating in the Worthington Campus Commons
Following the National Tournament, cheers of victory echoed through the halls of Minnesota West Community & Technical College. The Ladyjays, once dreamers, celebrated their historic win at the NJCAA Division III Women's Basketball National Championship in Rochester, MN.
Led by Coach Moz Hayenga-Hostikka, the 2023-2024 team now stands as the Women's Basketball program's first-ever national title champions.
Last year's bitter defeat in the title game against Rochester Community & Technical College fueled their determination to settle unfinished business. In a rematch, they got their revenge, beating RCTC 76-60.
The road to the championship wasn't without obstacles. Minnesota West received a first-round bye and then won against Prince George Community College in the quarterfinals and Northland in the semifinals to reach the national title game.
Photo credit: NJCAA
In the championship game, the gymnasium held its breath as sophomore Audrey Drapeau raced down the floor and heaved a half-court shot that banked in as the half-time buzzer sounded, sending the Minnesota West fans into a frenzy and the Ladyjays into the locker room with a 42-33 lead.
Each Ladyjay brought their own story to the court – facing challenges with determination and a belief in themselves and each other. The crowd filled with blue and white, roared with each basket, their voices cheering on their team.
The final quarter of the championship game was intense as RCTC's players fouled out and forced the Yellowjackets to play only four players for the rest of the game. The Ladyjays stayed focused and held on to their double-digit lead until the end. When the final buzzer sounded, the Ladyjay players poured onto the court in celebration and knew they had achieved basketball history.
Photo credit: NJCAA. Sophomore guard Olivia Hayenga was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament for her outstanding performance, contributing 58 points, 32 rebounds, and 12 assists. Additionally, sophomores Audrey Drapeau and Hattie DeVries were honored with a spot on the all-tournament team.
Photo credit: NJCAA. Coach Moz Hayenga-Hostikka received the Coach of the Tournament award for her leadership.
The Ladyjays finished their season with a record of 26-7, wrapping up with an impressive 12-game winning streak and victories in 15 of their last 16 games.
Despite the challenges along the way to this well-deserved victory, the team will always remember this moment.
Ladyjays, you have made us proud. Congratulations on becoming champions!
Photo credit: NJCAA
