LAS CRUCES, NM — Western New Mexico University (0-8, 0-2 Lone Star) fell to New Mexico State University (3-6, 0-0 CUSA), 76-44, at the Pan American Center on Sunday. The Mustangs struggled with turnovers, committing 24, while New Mexico State capitalized with 25 points off those mistakes.

The game started with Western NM struggling to find footing as they managed just one basket in the opening quarter. Ema Rose's (Anthony, TX/Gadsden High school) jumper at 8:57 tied the game briefly at 2–2, but turnovers and missed opportunities plagued the Mustangs throughout the quarter. Natalie Magallnes contributed by converting three free throws in a row at 6:57 to bring Western NM within three points. However, the Aggies capitalized on Western NM's six turnovers, building a substantial lead. The first quarter concluded with the Mustangs trailing 19–8.

Western NM struggled to find offensive momentum in the second quarter, marked by seven turnovers, which hindered their scoring opportunities. Magallnes provided a brief spark with a fast-break layup following her steal at 8:55, narrowing the gap momentarily to 19-10. However, the Aggies capitalized on these turnovers and extended their lead with efficient shooting, including a late 3-pointer by Nikki Stanic at 1:29. The second quarter concluded with Western NM trailing 38-16.

Western NM started the third quarter with a strong offensive push, highlighted by Magallnes' 3-pointer at 8:30. Despite efforts to close the gap, including another 3-pointer from Jordan Sapien (El Paso, TX/Pebble Hills High School) at 7:49, the Aggies maintained control with consistent scoring in the paint. The Mustangs found success at the free-throw line with Sapien converting two attempts at 5:28, but turnovers hindered further momentum. The quarter concluded with Western N.M. trailing 64–33.

In the fourth quarter, the Mustangs sought to close the gap with a series of key plays. Alexandra Gonzales (Elephant Butte, NM/Hot Springs HS) contributed significantly with a jumper at 1:55, bringing their score to 44. Despite their efforts, Western NM faced challenges in maintaining possession, as turnovers hindered their progress. The Aggies capitalized on these opportunities, sustaining their lead throughout the quarter. The game concluded with New Mexico State securing a 76-44 victory.

Sapien scored 11 points, including one 3-pointer, and recorded four rebounds. Magallnes also contributed 11 points and added three steals to her performance. Angelina Khalaf (Porter, TX/Porter High School) collected seven rebounds and scored four points. Tess Taylor (Huffman, TX/Hargrave High School) grabbed two rebounds and made a steal in the contest.

Imani Warren led New Mexico State with six assists and three steals, contributing seven points in the game. Emma Christiano matched Warren's playmaking with six assists and added five points, while also securing five rebounds. Lucia Yenes was the top scorer, posting 14 points on 6-for-10 shooting from the field, alongside four assists and four rebounds. Morane Dossou added significant support with 10 points and eight rebounds, making five of seven shots.

The Mustangs stand at 0-8 overall and 0-2 in Lone Star play. The Aggies hold a 3-6 overall record with no conference games played in CUSA.

Looking ahead, Western New Mexico will host UT Dallas on Saturday, Dec. 20. Tip-off is set for noon at Drag's Court in Silver City, New Mexico.
 

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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).