Continuing to narrow the gap on the league leaders, Redlands Community College women’s basketball team outscored Seminole State 43-17 in the second half en route to an 81-46 win over the Belles.

With its third straight victory, Redlands improves to 18-4 on the season.

More importantly, the Cougars are now 5-3 in the NJCAA Region 2 standings, which is still fourth, but now are a game and a half out of third and two back of first place.

Haven Joseph posted a double-double line of 22 points, 15 rebounds and a steal to pace Redlands.

Dropping its second worst contest in league play, Redlands Community College men’s basketball team suffered a 95-65 setback to Seminole State College.

The loss leaves the Cougars with a 9-13 overall mark and a 3-5 record in the NJCAA Region 2 standings.

Redlands remains tied for seventh in the standings at 3-5.

Only two players reached double digits for Redlands as Justice Johnson had a line of 13 points, eight boards and two steals.

Damond Matthews had 13 points, five assists and four boards.

If all goes to plan, by late 2027, Canadian County should be opening the doors to the fourth courthouse it has built since the county was created.

It might be sooner if the weather cooperates, but that’s the goal. And the fastest-growing county in the state has come a long way since its humble beginnings. 

So said District 1 County Commissioner Tom Manske, who served as guest speaker at last week’s El Reno Now gathering. Manske said a groundbreaking ceremony is set for 10:30 a.m. Feb. 9 for the planned four-story structure in the 200 block of North Choctaw. 

El Reno Public Schools Superintendent Matt Goucher said the district is working to help bring more tournaments and events to town to help bolster the economy.

Goucher spoke at last week’s El Reno Now event along with City Manager Matt Sandidge and County Commissioner Tom Manske.

The event is normally hosted by the mayor and school superintendent, but Mayor Steve Jensen was battling an illness and was unable to attend, Sandidge said.