The Olympic College women's basketball team put together an impressive three-game run to sweep their tournament slate, showcasing toughness, depth, and steady improvement from opening tip to final horn. The Rangers opened with a fast-paced win over Mt. Hood, followed by a gritty defensive performance against Portland to move to 2–0, and closed the event with a closing battle against Wenachee Valley to secure a perfect weekend.
Olympic set the tone early in the tournament with an 89–74 victory over Mt. Hood, fueled by balanced scoring and disruptive defense. Trian Clark erupted for 22 points and filled the stat sheet with 5 rebounds, 7 steals, and a block, setting the energy level for the weekend. Kanzas Mills added 12 points, while Ollie Decker, Cesaria Pelagio, and Carmayla Jackson all reached double figures as the Rangers pulled away with a dominant second quarter. Olympic's pressure forced 25 steals and turned Mt. Hood's turnovers into 32 points, one of the defining advantages of the tournament.
The next night, the Rangers proved they could win a very different style of game, grinding out a 56–43 victory over Portland. Despite a cold shooting night, Olympic controlled the glass and tightened defensively in the second half, allowing just 12 total points after halftime. Cesaria Pelagio led the way with 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Trian Clark battled her way to 8 points and a team-high 11 rebounds. Nevaeh Thew added 9 points and 5 boards, and Kanzas Mills scored 10 more to keep the offense steady. Olympic's defensive pressure again made the difference, collecting 16 steals and forcing 30 turnovers to seize control late.
The Rangers carried that momentum into their final game of the tournament versus a tough Wenachee Valley, completing the three-game sweep with another poised and energetic performance, 57-54. Their defensive intensity remained a constant, and the scoring balance continued to shine as multiple players contributed across the board — the same formula that powered the first two wins. Nevaeh Thew led the way with playing 33 tough minutes and a line of 13 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 steals. Cesaria Pelagio produced another impressive performance with adding 12 points and 5 rebounds.
With three victories in three days, Olympic, ranked 8th in the NWAC preseason polls, leaves the tournament with confidence, chemistry, and a clear identity built on relentless defense and contributions from throughout the lineup. Kanzas Mills was named tournament MVP and added, "The Portland tournament was awesome! Our team's energy was amazing, and we were so hyped supporting each other that the bench almost got a technical foul for being too loud. I'm incredibly proud of how we powered through every challenge, and adversity we faced. We played with so much heart and I'm incredibly grateful to be a part of such a special team." The Rangers demonstrated they can win with pace, with physicality, and with discipline — a promising sign as a promsing season unfolds. The Rangers turn right around and play Tacoma at home on Tuesday night at 7 pm. Come catch the action!
