Reedley Sweeps Merced in Dominant Doubleheader Performance at Home

Men's & Women's Doubleheader Recap – February 20, 2026 | Reedley, CA

It was a dominant night on their home floor for Reedley College, as the Tigers swept a Central Valley doubleheader against Merced College on Friday evening. The men's team grinded out a hard-fought 62–55 win, while the women's squad delivered an emphatic 99–56 victory to cap off an electric night in Reedley.

Men's Game: Reedley 62, Merced 55

Reedley used a strong first half and balanced scoring effort to hold off a persistent Merced squad in a competitive contest.

The Tigers jumped out to a 30–20 halftime lead behind efficient shooting and active defense. Though Merced responded with 35 second-half points, Reedley matched the intensity down the stretch to secure the seven-point win.

Key Performers – Reedley

• Lucean Milligan led all scorers with 19 points, shooting an impressive 9-of-11 from the field.

• Devon Marshall added 16 points, four rebounds, three assists, and three steals in a well-rounded performance.

• Aaron Williams controlled the glass with nine rebounds while chipping in 10 points.

• Macario Solorio was efficient inside, scoring six points on a perfect 2-for-2 shooting night.

Reedley shot 49% from the floor (25-of-51) and outrebounded Merced 32–7, creating valuable second-chance opportunities and limiting Merced's inside presence. The Tigers also tallied 15 assists and nine steals, showcasing active ball movement and defensive pressure.

Despite shooting just 22.2% from three-point range, Reedley capitalized at the free-throw line (10-of-14) and maintained composure in the final minutes to seal the win.

Sophomore Spotlight – Men

Reedley's sophomores played a pivotal role in the victory, providing leadership and production throughout the lineup.  Lucean Milligan and Devon Marshall set the tone offensively, combining for 35 points on efficient shooting while also contributing defensively with five steals. Aaron Williams anchored the interior with nine rebounds and physical post play, and Macario Solorio made the most of his opportunities with flawless shooting from the field. Their experience showed in key stretches late in the game, as the sophomore core helped steady the Tigers and close out the contest.

Women's Game: Reedley 99, Merced 56

The nightcap was a showcase of offensive firepower as Reedley overwhelmed Merced from the opening quarter.

The Tigers stormed to a 25–8 lead in the first quarter and never looked back. Reedley led 45–19 at halftime and continued to push the pace in the second half, finishing with 99 points in one of their most complete performances of the season.

Offensive Explosion

Five Tigers scored in double figures, highlighting the team's depth and balance:

• Taylor Sutherland posted a dominant 24-point, 15-rebound double-double along with six assists.

• Qierra Murray poured in 23 points and added five steals.

• Kenadi Walton recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds, while protecting the rim with four blocks.

• Chantel Rodriguez contributed 13 points and eight rebounds.

• Raquel Cortez added 12 points and five assists.

Reedley shot 47% from the field (39-of-83) and knocked down nine three-pointers at a 40.9% clip. The Tigers dominated the boards and forced 15 turnovers, converting defensive stops into transition opportunities.

Their defensive intensity was evident throughout, compiling 16 steals and seven blocks while holding Merced to just eight first-quarter points.

Sophomore Spotlight – Women

The Tigers' sophomores delivered a statement performance in the nightcap, combining experience with execution on both ends of the floor. Taylor Sutherland's 24-point, 15-rebound double-double highlighted her leadership, Qierra Murray's 23 points and five steals sparked the fast break, Chantel Rodriguez contributed 13 points and was aggressive in earning eight rebounds. Finally Raquel "The Rock" Cortez efficiently directed the offense with five assists and adding 12 points of her own. The sophomore class set the tone early and maintained the pressure throughout, showcasing the maturity and cohesion that has fueled Reedley's late-season momentum.

A Successful Night at Home

With both squads defending their home court, Reedley College celebrated a clean sweep in front of their fans. The men displayed grit and execution in a close contest, while the women delivered a statement performance built on pace, depth, and relentless defense.

POST-SEASON HOPES ALIVE & STRONG!!

The Men's team finshes CVC with four straight wins with an overall record of 15-13 and a 5th place spot in the CVC at 6-8.  There's an outside chance to make it in the top 24-team group depending upon the RPI formula, but they'll likely need some help.  In all it has been a successful season for the Tigers Men's BB program as the boys showed character throughout the season bouncing back and showing positive character in adverse situations.  The highlight being a sweep of FCC in CVC play, which is the first time in a decade or more. 

The Women's program are definitely going to qualify for playoffs, the key will be where and in which slot?  The team finished 17-11 overall and 4th place in the CVC with a 6-6 record. They are presently the 19th rankied team in NorCal.  The top 8 teams receive a bye. Teams 9-16 will have home court advantage in the first round of playoffs.  However, the RPI formula can move plently of teams when all calculations are completed at Sunday's 3C2A Regional Meeting.  There is an outside chance that the Tigers could host on Wed. February 25th.  Whether home or way the date will remain the same.  

Stay Tuned as we will update on Monday.  Well done TIgers on a great regular season!!