Cochise Falls to Eastern Arizona in Road Conference Matchup

Thatcher, Ariz. — Cochise College men's basketball dropped an 81–55 decision to Eastern Arizona College on Wednesday night in ACCAC conference action, falling to 13–10 overall and 3–5 in league play.

Cochise struggled to find its offensive rhythm throughout the contest, trailing 41–31 at halftime before Eastern Arizona pulled away in the second half behind efficient shooting and strong rebounding. The Gila Monsters outscored the Apaches 40–24 after the break to create separation and control the final stretch of the game.

Emmanuel Jo Samuel led Cochise with 17 points, attacking the basket and knocking down key shots to keep the Apaches within reach early. Jhace Johnson added 15 points, going 7-for-8 at the free-throw line, while Naeem Colston contributed 10 points and five rebounds in the paint.

Freshman Davon Jones finished with five points and four rebounds, and Teron Murray added five points and five rebounds as Cochise worked to generate second-chance opportunities.

As a team, the Apaches shot 30.2 percent from the field and were limited to just two three-pointers, while Eastern Arizona converted 47.1 percent of its shots and held a decisive rebounding advantage.

Eastern Arizona was led by Ryan Hunt, who recorded 22 points and 17 rebounds, while Kahu Treacher and Kofi Peyton provided additional scoring to fuel the Gila Monsters' second-half surge.

With the loss, Cochise will look to regroup as conference play continues.

The Apaches return home on Saturday, Feb. 7, to host Central Arizona College at 4:00 p.m. in Douglas.