Cochise falls to Arizona Western in conference play

DOUGLAS, Ariz. — Cochise College Women's Basketball was unable to overcome a strong third quarter from Arizona Western College on Wednesday night, falling 72–58 in ACCAC conference action at the Cochise Stronghold Gymnasium.

The loss drops the Apaches to 5–13 overall and 1–2 in conference play.

Arizona Western used a 22–15 advantage in the third quarter to create separation after leading 34–20 at halftime. The Matadors shot 64.3 percent in the period and connected on key perimeter shots to extend their lead to double digits entering the fourth.

Cochise responded with its best offensive stretch late in the game, outscoring Arizona Western 23–16 in the final quarter, but the early deficit proved too large to overcome.

Freshman Cecy Burruel led all Apaches with 17 points, knocking down 8-of-9 free throws and adding two assists. Gaby Oliver added 17 points, including three three-pointers, while Hannah Dibadjou contributed 13 points and nine rebounds off the bench.

Sophomore center Lesline Penge anchored the interior with 10 rebounds and three blocks, and Malika Goutay chipped in six rebounds and four points.

Cochise shot 35.2 percent from the field and committed 24 turnovers, which Arizona Western converted into 22 points. The Matadors also held a 32–18 edge in points in the paint and received 26 points from their bench.

Arizona Western was led by Chen Pan with 16 points and Garance Soulas with 11 as the visitors improved to 9–7 overall and 2–0 in conference play.

Up next

Cochise remains home this Saturday, January 17, hosting No. 3 ranked Eastern Arizona College at the Cochise Stronghold Gymnasium. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.