Cochise Women’s Basketball Season Comes to an End in Region I Semifinals

THATCHER, Ariz. — The Cochise College Women's Basketball season came to a close Saturday night as the Apaches fell to No. 1 seed Eastern Arizona College 82–49 in the NJCAA Region I Semifinals at Guitteau Gymnasium. 

Cochise concludes the 2025-26 campaign with an 11–21 overall record, following a late-season push that included a postseason play-in victory to reach the regional semifinals.

Eastern Arizona set the tone early, building momentum in the opening quarter and taking a 26–12 lead after the first period. The Gila Monsters continued to extend their advantage in the second quarter, carrying a 43–19 lead into halftime. 

Despite the early deficit, the Apaches continued to battle throughout the second half, highlighted by improved shooting and strong effort on the boards.

Sophomore Lesline Penge led Cochise offensively with 13 points and nine rebounds, while freshman Malika Goutay recorded a strong double-double performance with 10 points and 13 rebounds. 

Freshman Cecy Burruel added 10 points, knocking down a pair of three-pointers, and Noa Mikami contributed three points and four assists in the backcourt. 

Eastern Arizona capitalized on turnovers and efficient shooting to maintain control throughout the contest. The Gila Monsters finished with 30 points off turnovers while shooting 42.3 percent from the field. 

Cochise finished the night shooting 30.8 percent from the field, but remained active on the glass with 30 rebounds, including 13 offensive boards. 

The semifinal appearance capped a resilient season for the Apaches, who overcame adversity throughout the year and closed the regular season strong before advancing through the conference play-in round to earn a spot in the regional tournament.

With a roster led by impactful freshmen and experienced sophomores, Cochise showed growth and determination throughout the season, laying a foundation for the program moving forward.