Yetis Women’s Basketball Caps Historic 2025-26 Season with Championship Run

The 2025-26 season will be remembered as a defining chapter for Cleveland Community College women's basketball, as the Yetis put together a historic campaign marked by championships, national recognition, and record-setting performances.

Under head coach Scooter Lawrence, the Yetis established themselves as one of the premier programs in NJCAA Division II, finishing the season ranked #21 nationally while capturing the program's first-ever Region 10 Championship and earning their first berth in the NJCAA National Tournament.

A Season of Firsts

This year's success marked a turning point for the program, as the Yetis reached milestones never before achieved in school history. CCC secured its first Region 10 title, made its first appearance on the national stage, and earned its first national ranking—highlighted by a season-high ranking of #20.

The Yetis remained a consistent presence in the national spotlight, earning recognition in 11 of the 15 NJCAA polls, including a program-record eight consecutive weeks in the rankings.

Balanced Attack Fuels Success

Cleveland's success was built on a complete and disciplined team approach. The Yetis averaged 74.7 points per game while shooting nearly 40 percent from the field, combining efficient offense with a strong defensive presence that held opponents to just over 59 points per game.

Defensively, the Yetis were relentless, totaling 346 steals (10.5 per game) and 136 blocks (4.1 per game), consistently disrupting opponents and creating scoring opportunities in transition.

Their ability to win in multiple ways—whether through half-court execution, defensive pressure, or balanced scoring—made them one of the most well-rounded teams in Region 10.

Standout Performers Lead the Way

Individually, the Yetis were well represented among the region's statistical leaders. Kari Lee ranked second in Region 10 in total assists with 143, establishing herself as one of the top playmakers in the region. She added 10.8 points and 5.5 rebounds per game while also ranking sixth in the region in steals with 69.

Jada Whitesides powered the offense, averaging a team-high 13.9 points per game to rank among the top 10 scorers in Region 10 Division II. She also made her presence felt defensively, finishing fifth in the region with 78 steals.

De'Mya Phifer provided another consistent scoring threat, averaging 12.2 points per game to give the Yetis multiple top scorers—an uncommon advantage at the regional level.

On the glass, Sydnie Enste anchored the rebounding effort, averaging 6.7 rebounds per game to rank among the region's best. Enste also tied for third in Region 10 with 46 blocks, showcasing her impact on the defensive end.

Joining her, Dalton matched that defensive presence with 46 blocks of her own, as the duo formed one of the top rim-protecting tandems in the region.

Depth and Team Chemistry

Beyond the top performers, the Yetis' depth played a critical role throughout the season. Multiple players contributed consistent scoring, with several averaging over four points per game.

Kiya Shavers emerged as a key contributor off the bench, averaging 6.1 points per game and providing valuable offensive production that helped maintain momentum in crucial stretches.

That depth, combined with strong team chemistry and clearly defined roles, allowed the Yetis to sustain a high level of play from start to finish.

A Complete Team Identity

The Yetis built their identity on balance, toughness, and execution. With three players averaging double figures, strong rebounding across multiple positions, and a defense that consistently pressured opponents, CCC proved it could compete—and win—against the best.

Their statistical profile reflected that dominance:

• 74.7 points per game

• 33.7 rebounds per game

• 13.4 assists per game

• 10.5 steals per game

• 4.1 blocks per game

A Rising Force in NJCAA Basketball

This season was more than a collection of wins—it was a statement.

From the program's first national ranking to its first championship and national tournament victory, the Yetis have firmly established themselves as a rising force in NJCAA Division II basketball.

With a historic season now complete, Cleveland Community College women's basketball has not only raised expectations but also proven it belongs on the national stage.