MARIANNA, Fla. – Jones College battled No. 4 Chipola College on Friday night, but a strong second quarter by the Indians proved too much for the Bobcats in a 73-57 loss.
Chipola improved to 3-0 on the season, while Jones fell to 1-1 following the road matchup.
The Bobcats kept things competitive early, trailing 16-11 after the opening quarter. However, Chipola found its offensive rhythm in the second period, outscoring Jones 25-17 to take a 41-28 advantage into halftime.
Jones responded after the break, putting together a 19-point third quarter while holding Chipola to 13 points to trim the deficit to seven entering the final period. The Indians regained control in the fourth, outscoring the Bobcats 19-10 to secure the victory.
Jakera Ducksworth led Jones with 21 points, shooting 6 of 15 from the field and knocking down two 3-pointers. She also went 7 of 8 from the free-throw line.
Ashley Martinez added 11 points, including three 3-pointers, while Nailah Herrera finished with 10 points on 3-of-7 shooting. Bre'yanna Blount contributed six points and four assists.
Chipola was led by Tamaia Vines, who came off the bench to score 15 points on 7-of-15 shooting. Amelia Williams added 12 points, while Filomena Luis chipped in 11 points and five assists.
The Indians controlled the glass, outrebounding Jones 50-30, including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Chipola also recorded 10 steals compared to five for the Bobcats.
Jones shot 34 percent from the floor, 8 of 30 from 3-point range and converted 11 of 13 attempts from the free throw line.
The Bobcats face another tall task Saturday, facing No. 8 Gulf Coast State at 1 p.m.
The game will be streamed live for a fee here on Chipola's Hudl Fan page.