EAST PEORIA, Ill.—January 7, 2026— The No. 12-ranked Parkland College women's basketball team earned a statement victory on Wednesday night, defeating No. 2 Illinois Central College, 68–51, on the road. With the win, the Cobras improve to 10–4 on the season.
Parkland set the tone defensively and controlled the glass, holding one of the nation's top offenses to 51 points while forcing turnovers and limiting second-chance opportunities. After battling through the opening half, the Cobras pulled away with strong execution in the third quarter and closed the game with poise.
Yohangeli Guzman led Parkland with 14 points, adding 3 steals and consistent pressure on both ends of the floor. Kiarra Orphelia provided a spark off the bench, scoring 13 points while also contributing 4 steals and 3 assists.
Sofia Perez chipped in 12 points, knocking down a pair of three-pointers, while Stacie Vonderheide added 9 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals. Leigha Brown delivered a strong effort on the boards, finishing with 12 rebounds.
Defensively, Parkland recorded 15 steals and forced 20 Illinois Central turnovers, turning those into transition opportunities and momentum-shifting possessions. The Cobras also out-rebounded the Cougars 48–36, controlling the paint throughout the night.
Parkland returns home to host Spoon River College on January 10 at the Dodds Athletic Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. CST.
For more information about Parkland College Athletics, visit
www.parklandcobras.com or follow @ParklandCobras on social media.