KANKAKEE, Ill. –No. 19 Parkland women's basketball (14-2) won its third in a row, defeating Kankakee Community College (13-4), in a closely contested game, 61-59. Emily Meinert (22 points, 16 rebounds, 3 blocks) was dominate in the paint as the Cobras snapped the Cavaliers' unblemished home winning streak.
 
In a very competitive first half, featuring two 13-win teams, Parkland got into early foul trouble, conceded numerous Caveliers free throws, and lost the battle on the offensive boards. Though the score was knotted at 27 by halftime, four Cobras had each been whistled for two personal fouls.
 
The score remained tight throughout the second half, though Parkland had become increasingly focused and aggressive, and overall quality of play had improved from the first quarter. Starting guards Bree Trimble (12 points, 6 rebounds), Peyton Crowe (7 points, 2 rebounds, 5 assists), and Gema Alegre (5 points, 5 assists) handled the ball well, combining for 12 assists and only 1 turnover. Additional quality defense and rebounding came from Naomi McDaniel (6 points, 2 rebounds, 2 blocks), and Cassie Russo (6 points, 3 rebounds).
 
Late in the game, Kankakee began to pull away, taking a 5-point lead, with just under 5 minutes to play. The Cobras kept their composure, and kept fighting, with clutch rebounds from Meinert and Trimble leading to key offensive opportunities. Meinert converted two clutch free throws with under 1 minute on the clock, setting up one final defensive stand. A tough Cobras defense that featured a McDaniel block preserved the hard-fought victory.
 
Up next, the Cobras are back home in Champaign, Ill., to face Malcolm X College, on Thursday, January 16th, at 5:30 pm.