Cochise Rolls Past Yavapai, Clinches No. 3 Seed in Region Tournament

Prescott, AZ — Cochise College closed out the regular season in dominant fashion Saturday afternoon, defeating Yavapai College 86-66 on the road to secure the No. 3 seed in the upcoming NJCAA Region I Tournament.

With the victory, the Apaches improve to 19-11 overall and 9-6 in ACCAC play, finishing the regular season with strong momentum heading into postseason competition. 

After a slow opening quarter, Cochise found its rhythm in the second period, outscoring Yavapai 31-4 to completely shift control of the game. The Apaches carried that momentum into halftime and never relinquished their lead, maintaining double-digit separation throughout the second half.

Cochise's balanced scoring attack and defensive pressure proved decisive. The Apaches held Yavapai to just 32.9% shooting from the field, limiting second-chance opportunities and forcing contested looks throughout the contest. 

The Apaches showed composure and poise in all four quarters, responding to Yavapai's early energy with efficient offense and disciplined defense. Cochise closed the regular season by winning key conference games down the stretch, positioning themselves favorably for the postseason.

With the regular season complete, Cochise now turns its attention to the NJCAA Region I Tournament. The Apaches have clinched the No. 3 seed and will travel to Thatcher on Thursday, March 5, to face No. 2 seed Eastern Arizona College at 7:00 p.m.

The postseason matchup sets the stage for another chapter in the ACCAC rivalry as Cochise looks to continue its strong late-season surge and advance in region play.