Western New Mexico's men's basketball team played hard but could not get their usual second half surge Saturday as Colorado Christian University scorched Drag's Court from the three-point line and handed WNMU a disappointing 78-72 loss in Silver City. The loss drops WNMU to 8-7 (4-3 RMAC), while CCU improved to 8-6 (6-1 RMAC).

 

The Cougars shot an impressive 44% from beyond the arc and were particularly impressive shooting each time the Mustangs closed the gap on them. CCU shot 51% from the field to WNMU's 44%, but dominated the 'Stangs, 42-26, in rebounding.

 

The Mustangs' Devin Stewart (Tucson, AZ/Santa Rita High School) (Tucson, AZ) turned in one of his best performances in his two-year career, slashing his way to 26 points in 38 minutes on the court, mostly from the paint. Senior Trey Clarkson (Tucson, AZ/Sal Pointe High School) (Tucson, AZ) added 17 despite being harassed by a stingy Cougar defense.

 

CCU was led by Brian Stamer's 26-point, 12-rebound double-double. Former Deming Wildcat Peter Bailey also turned the double-double trick with 12 rebounds and 13 points.

 

The Mustangs entertain CSU-Pueble on January 17 in game three of a four-game home stand. Game time is 8:00pm.