Balanced Cougars Dominate Merced 86-48 Behind Smothering Defense

Taft College used a dominant start and balanced scoring effort to roll past Merced 86-48 on Saturday evening in Merced, controlling the game wire to wire and outscoring the hosts in every quarter.

The Cougars seized control immediately with a 24-7 first-quarter surge, setting a defensive tone that Merced never solved. Taft extended the lead to 47-24 by halftime after a 23-17 second quarter and carried that momentum through the third, leading 65-41 heading into the final 10 minutes. A 21-7 advantage in the fourth quarter completed the 38-point victory and underscored Taft's ability to finish strong.

Offensively, Taft was efficient, shooting 49.3% from the field (35-for-71) and knocking down seven 3-pointers. The Cougars also converted 9 of 13 free throws and consistently generated high-percentage looks through ball movement and transition opportunities, finishing with 16 assists as a team.

Madyn Kassatly led the Cougars with 18 points, going 8-for-11 from the floor in 19 minutes of action. Ella Waufle provided a strong all-around performance with 14 points, seven rebounds, four assists and four steals, while shooting 5-for-7 from the field and 2-for-3 from beyond the arc. Jada Miller added 10 points, five steals and three assists, giving Taft an active presence in the backcourt on both ends.

Head Coach Romeo Lagmay, Jr. said, "The players have been challenged, and tonight they responded with a sense of urgency and improvement of IQ. I'm super proud of them. When the pressure is presenting itself, the pipes are not breaking."

Taft's rebounding edge was decisive, as the Cougars were credited with 56 total rebounds, including 20 on the offensive glass. Forward Tiara Jackson anchored the interior with 11 rebounds, along with five points and three steals, helping limit Merced to one shot on most possessions while extending several Cougar trips with second-chance opportunities.

Defensively, Taft's pressure generated 18 steals and disrupted Merced's rhythm throughout the night. The Cougars turned turnovers into points in transition and maintained their intensity deep into the fourth quarter, reflected in the 21-7 scoring margin over the final frame.

The victory continues a strong stretch of play for the Cougar women's basketball program, showcasing the team's depth and commitment on the defensive end. With multiple players contributing across the box score and a complete effort from start to finish, Taft carries significant momentum into the heart of its schedule.