Cochise Pushes Win Streak to Two, Handles Western Nebraska 82–69 at Gila Monster Classic

Thatcher, Ariz. — Cochise College men's basketball made it back-to-back wins at the Eastern Arizona Gila Monster Classic on Saturday afternoon, using a strong second half to pull away from Western Nebraska College for an 82–69 victory at Guitteau Gymnasium. The win moves Cochise to 4–1 on the season and marks their second straight double-digit victory. 

The Apaches trailed 39–38 at halftime but erupted for 44 points after the break behind sharp shooting, defensive pressure, and balanced scoring from both starters and reserves. Cochise shot an efficient 50% from the field and 38.9% from three, while holding Western Nebraska to just 8-for-41 from deep. 

Freshman guard Davon Jones delivered a major spark off the bench, scoring a team-high 18 points on 7-of-14 shooting, including two threes. Teron Murray posted a big night as well, finishing with 14 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double. 

Starters Jhace Johnson and Emmanuel Jo Samuel added identical 13-point outings. Johnson turned in another all-around performance with 5 assists and 5 steals, while Samuel contributed three assists and knocked down two threes. Gabriel Grant chipped in 9 points and 4 rebounds, and freshman guard Devin Falk-Ramirez added 9 points off the bench, hitting a three and going 2-for-2 at the line. 

Cochise controlled the game offensively by spreading the floor and moving the ball, finishing with 18 assists on 30 made field goals. Despite being edged on the boards 32–26, the Apaches kept Western Nebraska at bay by forcing 18 turnovers and converting them into transition opportunities. 

Western Nebraska was led by Viktor Lukic-Gavric with 15 points and Kellon Harris with 14. Amare Jackson added 10. 

Cochise (4–1) now looks to close the Gila Monster Classic on a high note. The Apaches return to action Thursday, Nov. 20, at 3:30 p.m., facing North Idaho College in Thatcher.