#14 UCNJ Stuns #3 CCBC Essex in 99-95 Road Thriller
BALTIMORE, MD – The Lady Owls delivered a statement victory on Thursday (11/13/2025) afternoon, traveling to Baltimore and defeating No. 3 ranked CCBC Essex, 99-95, in one of the program’s biggest early-season wins in recent history. With the victory, the Owls improve to 4-0 on the season and continue to build impressive momentum behind a deep, balanced roster.
The game opened with CCBC Essex showcasing its signature run-and-gun style, attacking from the perimeter with a barrage of three-pointers and applying heavy ball pressure to control the pace of play. The Knights’ intensity dictated much of the first quarter, and despite UCNJ’s composure, the Owls found themselves trailing 31-26 after the first quarter. Once the second quarter began, UCNJ settled into its rhythm. Coach Taylor adjustments showed improved defensive execution, stronger rebounding, and more efficient offensive possessions for the Owls. By halftime, UCNJ had not only erased the deficit but built a 56-49 lead.
The third quarter brought added adversity, as foul trouble forced several UCNJ starters to the bench during key stretches. CCBC Essex capitalized with multiple scoring runs, turning the period into a tightly contested back-and-forth battle. Thanks to timely scoring and persistent defensive effort, UCNJ held onto a narrow 78-75 advantage heading into the fourth. In the final quarter, the Owls’ toughness and discipline ultimately defined the game. UCNJ controlled the glass with a 49-38 rebounding advantage and delivered timely stops as they fended off repeated Essex rallies to secure the 99-95 road win.
Sophomore forward Zanaya Parsons led all scorers with a dominant 24-point performance on a near perfect 9 of 10 shooting night. Parsons also added 8 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 assist, and a block. Freshman standout Zakiyyah Lindsey contributed 23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals, while freshman point guard Jasmin McKay filled the stat sheet with 20 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 6 steals, and a block in an all-around spectacular effort. Freshman Brianna Patterson added 7 points and 6 rebounds, while UCNJ’s depth proved critical during foul trouble situations. Sophomore Darrian Jackson delivered 7 points, 5 rebounds, and a steal off the bench, and freshman Jada Rodgers added 6 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists in key minutes. Freshman forward Aaliyah Littles also made a strong impact as a key bench contributor, finishing with 5 points, 2 rebounds, and an assist to help stabilize the Owls during vital stretches.
Next game for the Owls they visit Anne Arundel Community College on Saturday, November 15, tipping off at 1:00pm est. After that, they travel to Raritain Valley Community College on Tuesday, November 18 at 5:00pm, and on Thursday, Novmeber 20, they will visit Essex County College, tipping off at 6:00pm at the Cleo Hill Sr. Gym.
For future UCNJ women's basketall games, check out the 25-26 UCNJ women's basketball season schedule.
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UCNJ Women's Basketball Head Coach, Jaleel Taylor
GSAC Player of the Week (11/10) - Jasmin McKay
20 points | 7 rebounds | 6 assists | 6 steals | 1 block
23 points | 7 rebounds | 4 assists | 2 steals
24 points | 8 rebounds | 2 steals | 1 assist | 1 block