Howard Community College Hosts Thrilling IAAM Championship

Howard Community College served as the host site for the IAAM Championship, providing a fitting stage for one of the area's premier events. The atmosphere was electric from the outset, and by the opening tip of the first game, the gym had reached standing-room-only capacity.   Family, friends, and supporters filled the seats in school colors, creating a spirited backdrop for the competition. The energy only intensified as members of the Maryland basketball community packed in to show their support, adding to the significance and intensity of the championship setting.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Game 1: Pallotti Panthers vs. St. Frances Panthers</h2>   The first half was dictated by Pallotti, as they effectively established their high–low action through their Elon and Virginia Tech commits. Their interior presence and inside-out execution allowed them to control tempo and space early.   Momentum shifted coming out of halftime when [player_tooltip player_id='1263650' first='Khloe' last='Ison'] and [player_tooltip player_id='433861' first='Mone't' last='Edwards'] asserted themselves to open the third quarter. Their energy and shot-making changed the pace of the game, igniting a run that flipped control. From that point forward, St. Frances' backcourt proved to be the difference, applying pressure, creating scoring opportunities, and ultimately leading the charge to secure the IAAM championship.    Khloe opened the game aggressively, accounting for the Panthers' first five points before her scoring briefly settled. The second half, however, told a different story. She elevated her defensive pressure, turning stops into transition opportunities where she is at her most dangerous.   Her quick, shifty speed allowed her to attack downhill and finish through contact, totaling 14 points. More importantly, she consistently got to the free-throw line, converting seven attempts with the clock stopped. Beyond scoring, she created for others—dropping precise passes to cutting teammates and finishing the second half with at least five assists. Her two-way impact shifted the momentum and helped seal the outcome.     Mone't showed she is prepared for the next level at Hofstra University. Her defender struggled to contain her, as she had full command of her crossover and consistently created separation off the dribble. Whether pulling up into open space or using her strong, college-ready frame to attack the rim, she dictated the matchup.   In a hostile environment, her steady ball handling reflected both poise and leadership. She controlled tempo when needed, made sound decisions under pressure, and delivered a composed performance that underscored her readiness for the collegiate stage.     Chloe is simply a gamer and remains highly underrated. As a true point guard, she understands her role on an offensively loaded roster and embraces the responsibility of organizing, facilitating, and keeping the group balanced. She does not force the spotlight; she manages it.   Defensively, she sets the tone. Chloe is St. Frances' most reliable on-ball defender, consistently applying full-court pressure, disrupting passing lanes, and generating tips, deflections, and steals—all while maintaining discipline and avoiding unnecessary fouls.   To my Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association community (CIAA), Chloe has the tools, composure, and competitive edge to make an immediate impact at the next level.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Game 2: Glenelg Country vs. Severn School</h2>   The Dragons set the tone immediately and never cooled off. From the opening possession, they played with confidence and rhythm, sustaining their intensity on both ends of the floor.   Their quick, elusive backcourt dictated the pace, scoring from multiple levels and stretching the defense with consistent shot-making. Whether in transition or in the half court, they applied relentless pressure, and their opponent simply could not contain the surge.    Alexis finished with 15 points, delivering timely baskets that brought the crowd to its feet and shifted momentum at key moments. While her scoring stood out, it was her overall feel for the game that proved most impressive.   She played with constant energy, communicated with purpose, and led vocally throughout the contest. Her nonstop motor resonated with her teammates and carried into the stands, creating a spark that extended beyond the stat sheet.     Kayden embraced the spotlight from the opening minutes, announcing her presence with her patented crossover into a side-step three. The move set the tone and immediately put the defense on notice.   A true multi-level scorer, she connected on five shots from beyond the arc while also attacking the rim for six additional points. Her ability to score off the bounce, from deep range, and at the basket made her a constant problem and a clear factor on the big stage.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stock Riser</h2>    Jordyn is ready to be ranked.   Though young, she plays with notable composure and remains disciplined within her skill set. She consistently selects quality shots and does not rush possessions. When her feet are set, she is comfortable stretching the floor with her perimeter shooting. If defenders close out too aggressively, she shows the awareness to put the ball on the floor and rise for a controlled pull-up.   On the defensive end, she stays fundamentally sound—keeping her assignment in front, moving laterally with balance, and contesting without fouling. Her poise on both ends suggests maturity beyond her years.

Howard Community College served as the host site for the IAAM Championship, providing a fitting stage for one of the area's premier events. The atmosphere was electric from the outset, and by the opening tip of the first game, the gym had reached standing-room-only capacity.