DURANGO, CO. — Western New Mexico University (3-1, 0-0 Lone Star) secured a 78-70 victory over Colorado Mesa University (1-3, 0-0 RMAC) at Whalen Gymnasium. The Mustangs capitalized on 19 points from turnovers and outscored the Mavericks 20-12 at the free-throw line, overcoming a one-point halftime deficit.

The game began with Colorado Mesa quickly taking a 5-0 lead, but the Mustangs responded with a 3-pointer from Cortaviaus Seales (Rock Island, IL/North Scott High School) at 17:56, setting the stage for a tightly contested half. Western New Mexico then overcame a short deficit to tie the game at 12-12 with Keylon Dorsey's (Houston, TX/Eisenhower High School) dunk at 14:10. The teams exchanged leads multiple times, with the Mustangs taking a brief advantage at 9:10 after Isaiah Broady's (Chandler, AZ/Arizona Compass Prep) dunk and subsequent free throw, making it 23-20.

In the latter half of the first half, Western New Mexico maintained their edge through effective free-throw shooting, highlighted by Andre Harris's (Mesa, AZ/Hillcrest Prep) two successful attempts at 5:57, which pushed their lead to 32-29. Despite their efforts, the Mavericks regained the lead in the final moments, concluding the first half with a narrow 41-40 advantage over the Mustangs.

The Mustangs opened the second half with a pivotal three-pointer by Keylon Dorsey (Houston, TX/Eisenhower High School), assisted by Carson Kelly (Chandler, AZ/Chandler High School), to edge ahead 43–41. Despite a brief tie, Western New Mexico regained momentum with Seales scoring consistently, including a layup and free throws, extending their lead. A critical stretch midway through the half saw the Mustangs increase their advantage, highlighted by a fastbreak layup by Seales following his own steal, pushing the lead to 61–54.

Kelly's three-pointer at 14:00 further bolstered their position, while Broady's fastbreak dunk maintained their edge. Consistent defensive efforts, including several steals, limited Colorado Mesa's response. The Mustangs capitalized on free throw opportunities, with Seales converting twice in the closing seconds. The half concluded with Western New Mexico outscoring Colorado Mesa 38–29, securing a 78–70 victory.

Seales led the way with 27 points, connecting on 9 of 16 field goals and 7 of 8 free throws, while also dishing out five assists. Kelly added 18 points, making 5 of 13 shots from the field, including four 3-pointers. Dorsey contributed 10 points, converting 3 of 7 attempts and sinking 2 of 2 free throws. Nolan Brown made an impact defensively with three steals and also provided two assists.

In their next game, the Mustangs will travel to face Colorado Christian University on Wednesday, Nov. 26 in Lakewood, Colorado. The matchup is set for 5 p.m. MT.

 

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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).