Cochise Freshmen Goutay and Burruel Earn WBCA All-American Honorable Mention Honors
DOUGLAS, Ariz. — Cochise College Women's Basketball saw two of its standout freshmen recognized on the national stage, as Malika Goutay and Cecy Burruel were both named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) All-American Honorable Mention Team following the 2025–26 season.
The recognition places both Apaches among the top junior college players in the nation and highlights a breakout season for Cochise's young core.
Goutay Headlines Historic Freshman Season
Freshman forward Malika Goutay capped off a remarkable debut season with multiple honors, including:
- ACCAC Freshman of the Year
- All-Region I First Team
- WBCA All-American Honorable Mention
Goutay emerged as one of the most dominant post players in the conference, consistently producing double-doubles and controlling the paint on both ends of the floor.
Her season was highlighted by:
- 26 points, 9 rebounds vs. Arizona Western
- 22 points, 12 rebounds in the Region play-in win
- 20 points, 14 rebounds at Central Arizona
- 12 points, 16 rebounds in a key road victory at Southern Nevada
- Multiple double-doubles throughout the season
Goutay's physical presence, rebounding ability, and efficiency made her a cornerstone for the Apaches, finishing the year as one of the team's leading scorers and rebounders while anchoring the defense.
Burruel Provides Dynamic Perimeter Scoring
Freshman guard Cecy Burruel also earned national recognition after a standout season, adding to her postseason accolades:
- All-Region I Second Team
- WBCA All-American Honorable Mention
Burruel proved to be one of the most explosive scorers in the ACCAC, particularly from beyond the arc. Her ability to stretch defenses and create offense made her a constant threat.
Her season highlights included:
- A 27-point performance with seven three-pointers in a road win at Yavapai
- 18 points in the Region play-in victory
- 16 points at Central Arizona
- Multiple double-digit scoring performances throughout conference play
Burruel's scoring versatility and perimeter shooting were key components of Cochise's offensive success throughout the season.
About the WBCA
The Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) is one of the most respected organizations in women's basketball, representing coaches at all levels of the game, from youth to professional ranks.
Each year, the WBCA recognizes the top players across the country, and selection to the All-American Honorable Mention Team places student-athletes among an elite group of performers nationwide. The WBCA Two-Year College All-American teams are selected by the WBCA Two-Year College Awards Committee, which evaluates players based on performance, impact, and overall contribution throughout the season.
Building Momentum for the Future
With two freshmen earning both regional and national recognition, Cochise Women's Basketball continues to build a strong foundation for the future.
The performances of Goutay and Burruel throughout the season were instrumental in the Apaches' late-season surge, including a postseason play-in victory and a trip to the NJCAA Region I Semifinals.
Their recognition by the WBCA underscores the emergence of Cochise as a program on the rise—and signals even greater potential in the seasons ahead.