Arizona Western pulls away late to defeat Cochise in ACCAC matchup

DOUGLAS, Ariz. — Arizona Western College used a strong second half and balanced scoring to hand Cochise College an 83–71 loss Wednesday night at the Stronghold Gymnasium in ACCAC conference action.

The Apaches kept pace early and trailed just 41–37 at halftime before Arizona Western began to stretch the margin behind efficient shooting and second-chance opportunities in the final 20 minutes, building a lead that reached double digits midway through the half and held steady down the stretch. 

Sophomore guard Teron Murray led Cochise with 22 points, attacking the lane and converting at the free-throw line to keep the Apaches within reach. Jhace Johnson added 20 points, including a pair of late three-pointers that briefly cut into the deficit, while freshman Davon Jones chipped in 11 points.

Despite being held to four points, Naeem Colston was a force on the glass, pulling down 15 rebounds to give Cochise extra possessions throughout the night. Emmanuel Jo Samuel finished with 12 points as the Apaches placed four players in double figures.

Arizona Western was led by Matt Anglo's 20 points, while Marsai Mason posted 18 points and 13 rebounds. Paora Winitana added 15 points and 10 rebounds as the Matadors controlled the paint and outscored Cochise 42–34 in the second half.

With the loss, Cochise drops to 10–8 overall and 0–3 in ACCAC play.

The Apaches will look to bounce back at home this Saturday, January 17, when they host Eastern Arizona College at 4:00 p.m. in Douglas.