Cochise Falls to Pima in Opening Game of Aztec Winter Classic

TUCSON, Ariz. — Cochise College Women's Basketball opened its back-to-back series against Pima Community College on Monday afternoon but came up short, falling 93–83 at Aztec Gymnasium in the first game of the annual Aztec Winter Classic. The loss moves the Apaches to 3–10 on the season.

Cochise traded punches with the Aztecs throughout the contest and remained within striking distance into the fourth quarter, but Pima's efficiency from the field and depth off the bench proved to be the difference. The Aztecs shot 51.7% overall and 41.7% from three-point range, while Cochise finished at 42.6% from the field.

Freshman guard Cecy Burruel led all scorers with a career-high 27 points, knocking down 10 field goals and adding three assists in 39 minutes of action. Gaby Oliver followed with 21 points, while sophomore center Lesline Penge delivered another strong all-around performance with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and a team-high 7 blocks, anchoring Cochise defensively in the paint.

Freshman Noa Mikami added 9 points and 3 assists, and Malika Goutay contributed 7 points and 5 rebounds off the bench. Cochise won the rebounding battle 35–29 and matched Pima with 22 points off turnovers, but was outscored 21–7 in bench points.

Pima was paced by Melicia Nelson with 19 points, Lucy Fisher with 18, and Kiley Sours-Miller with 15, as five Aztecs scored in double figures. A 28-point third quarter gave Pima enough separation to hold off Cochise's late push.

Next Up

Cochise will look to bounce back quickly, facing Pima Community College again tomorrow in the second game of the back-to-back series. Tip-off is set for 4:00 PM in Tucson, Arizona.