Pima women advance to NJCAA Division II quarterfinals

Aztecs defeat Des Moines Area to reach next round of tournament

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:02am

The No. 4 Pima Aztecs women's basketball team defeated No. 13 Des Moines Area 71-64 in the second round of the NJCAA Division II tournament. Pima was led by Kiley Sours-Miller's 26 points and 9 rebounds, and Melicia Nelson's near triple-double of 11 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. The Aztecs, on a 15-game winning streak, advance to the quarterfinals where they will face No. 12 Cranford Union on Thursday.

Why it matters

Pima's win over Des Moines Area keeps their impressive postseason run alive as they look to capture the NJCAA Division II championship. The Aztecs have been one of the top teams in the country all season and are now just two wins away from reaching the tournament final.

The details

Pima led 56-42 entering the fourth quarter and extended their lead to 61-46 with 7:29 remaining. Des Moines Area made a late push to cut the deficit to 69-61 with 1:38 left, but they were unable to get any closer as Sours-Miller hit a jumper in the final minute to seal the victory for the Aztecs.

  • The game was played on Monday, March 17, 2026.
  • Pima will face Cranford Union in the quarterfinals on Thursday, March 20, 2026 at 12:00 pm Tucson time.

The players

Kiley Sours-Miller

A key player for the Pima Aztecs, Sours-Miller scored 26 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the win over Des Moines Area.

Melicia Nelson

Pima's Melicia Nelson nearly recorded a triple-double with 11 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists in the second-round victory.

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What’s next

The Pima Aztecs will face No. 12 Cranford Union in the quarterfinals of the NJCAA Division II tournament on Thursday, March 20, 2026 at 12:00 pm Tucson time.

The takeaway

Pima's dominant performance against Des Moines Area showcases their depth and talent as they continue their quest for the NJCAA Division II championship. The Aztecs' 15-game winning streak and ability to withstand late rallies demonstrates their resilience and determination to reach the tournament final.