Northwest Trappers to reunite at Chadron

Posted 6/15/21

While Samiyah Worrell’s and Riley Aiono’s days of playing together at Cabre Gym are now in the past, they will soon reunite.

After two seasons with the Northwest College women’s …

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Northwest Trappers to reunite at Chadron

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While Samiyah Worrell’s and Riley Aiono’s days of playing together at Cabre Gym are now in the past, they will soon reunite.

After two seasons with the Northwest College women’s basketball team, Worrell and Aiono have signed letters of intent to play at Chadron State College. Located in Chadron, Nebraska, CSC is an NCAA Division II school that competes in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. 

A guard, Worrell was the Trappers’ leading scorer in the 2021 season, averaging 14.1 points per game. She was named to the Region IX All-Conference Team for her contributions.

Aiono, a post, led Region IX in blocks with 37 in 22 games. She also contributed with 9.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per contest. 

Both saw Chadron as a place that will complement their styles of play.

“Many people overlook Chadron,” Worrell said. “For me, I feel like I am a player that is also overlooked, so I just feel like it is a great place where I can grow. I think anywhere I can push the ball is a good fit for me.”

As for Aiono, “I’ll be coming in as a power forward able to post up, as well as stretch out to the 3,” she said. “I plan to continue being a presence on defense as well.”

While they will both be newcomers when they arrive in the fall, their experience playing alongside one another could pay dividends for the squad’s ability to mesh.

“I think both of us coming in after playing at NWC together for two years will help add to the team’s chemistry overall, as well as bring in some experience since it’ll be a relatively young team,” Aiono said. “I’m excited to play with Samiyah [Worrell] cause she’s a talented player who knows how to make plays and score.”

Before joining CSC, Worrell said she hopes to become a better vocal leader and believes she can — thanks to guidance from her parents, NWC teammates and Northwest head coach Camden Levett. Aiono wants to improve her shooting range and player IQ, increasing her versatility on the floor. 

Most recently, Chadron State had a disappointing season, finishing 0-13. But with the leadership and built-in friendship between Worrell and Aiono, the duo is confident it can help change the program’s trajectory.

“I want to win some ballgames and get my bachelor’s [degree],” Worrell said. “I also just want to have fun and enjoy my last two years.”

Added Aiono, “In the offseason, I want to continue working, so that when I get to Chadron I can contribute on both sides to help us get some wins and reach our team goals.”

Northwest College, Trapper Basketball

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