PUEBLO, Colo. — Western New Mexico University fell to Colorado State University Pueblo, 84-34, at Massari Arena.

Western New Mexico encountered a challenging opening quarter against CSU Pueblo, falling behind early due to turnovers and missed opportunities. Angelina Khalaf (Porter, TX/Porter High School) managed to break the scoring drought with a layup at 7:59, assisted by Brelee Nichols (Huffman, TX/Hargrave High School), providing a brief surge for the visiting team. Despite baskets by Naomi Kimble (Animas, NM/Animas High School) in the closing minutes, the Mustangs trailed 19–6 after the first quarter.

The Mustangs struggled to find a rhythm in the second quarter, as they managed to score only 9 points. A key moment came when Teeya Gordon (Alamogordo, NM/Alamogordo High School) hit a jumper at 9:04, assisted by Yvanna Villarreal (Las Cruces, NM/Organ Mountain High School), to keep the Mustangs within reach early in the frame. However, the ThunderWolves' defensive pressure resulted in several turnovers and fast-break points, including a layup by Genesis Sweetwine at 2:11. The Mustangs ended the quarter trailing 43–15.

Western New Mexico struggled offensively in the third quarter, managing just one bucket out of 14 attempts. Gordon led the effort at the free-throw line, converting four free throws to contribute to the team's scoring. Despite a strong showing on the boards with 11 total rebounds, including seven on the offensive end, the Mustangs were unable to capitalize on second-chance opportunities. CSU Pueblo took advantage by scoring 17 points, including six from fast breaks, to extend their lead. The quarter ended with the ThunderWolves ahead 60–22, and the game concluded with this final score.

The Mustangs opened the fourth quarter with a quick surge, as Natalie Magallnes scored on a layup, assisted by Villarreal, at 9:39. This was followed by Villarreal adding another layup and a free throw to narrow the deficit. Despite these efforts, the ThunderWolves responded with a series of fast-break layups and a 3-pointer by Dasani Nesbit to extend their lead.

WNMU faced challenges in maintaining offensive momentum, committing several turnovers that allowed the ThunderWolves to capitalize. Kimble added two free throws in the final minute, but the visitors could not close the gap. The game ended with CSU Pueblo securing an 84–34 victory over the Mustangs.

Gordon led the team with eight points and added seven rebounds while collecting two steals. Kimble contributed six points and three rebounds. Villarreal recorded three assists and collected four rebounds. Khalaf posted four points and five rebounds, contributing two assists as well.

Seneya Martinez contributed significantly with 11 points, three blocks, and three steals, while also distributing five assists. Sweetwine led the scoring for CSU Pueblo with 12 points, shooting 5-for-7 from the field, and added four assists. Ruby Sweeney-Spitzeck stood out in playmaking with six assists and also secured two steals. Nesbit showcased defensive strength, recording two blocks and two steals, alongside six assists. Laci Roffle added 11 points and collected six rebounds, enhancing the ThunderWolves' presence on the boards.

The Mustangs hold an overall record of 0-6. In their next game, the Mustangs will travel to face St. Mary's on Thursday, Dec. 4. The matchup will take place in San Antonio, Texas.
 

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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).