SAN ANTONIO, TX — Western New Mexico University (0-7, 0-1 Lone Star) fell to St. Mary's (TX) (6-0, 1-0 Lone Star), 79-67, at Bill Greehey Arena despite hitting 11 three-pointers.

The first quarter commenced with Western NM establishing an early lead through a three-pointer by Tess Taylor (Huffman, TX/Hargrave High School) at 8:16, assisted by Naomi Kimble (Animas, NM/Animas High School). Jordan Sapien (El Paso, TX/Pebble Hills High School) contributed significantly with multiple scores, including a layup followed by a free throw at 5:33, which gave the Mustangs a brief edge. Despite the Mustangs' efforts, including a late three-pointer by Cieara Dinwiddie (Porter, TX/Porter High School) at 0:59, the Rattlers managed to close the quarter ahead, 20-18, after a last-second three-pointer by Aina Maynou.

Western NM surged with an early 3-pointer by Sapien at 9:41, assisted by Natalie Magallnes, gaining a brief advantage. Despite turnovers, they extended their edge to 25-20 with a free throw by Teeya Gordon (Alamogordo, NM/Alamogordo High School) at 5:59. The Rattlers responded with a series of successful plays, tying the game at 31-31 by 2:15.

Western NM briefly regained the lead through a Magallnes 3-pointer at 00:57, but the Rattlers closed the quarter with free throws by Raynne Malik, concluding the quarter with a tied score of 16-16. The game proceeded into the next phase with the Rattlers holding a slight 36-34 lead.

Western NM briefly gained momentum in the third quarter with a three-pointer from Sapien at 9:02, giving them a one-point lead. Yvanna Villarreal (Las Cruces, NM/Organ Mountain High School) kept the visitors close with another three-pointer at 6:37, narrowing the gap to two points. Despite these efforts, turnovers hindered the Mustangs' progress, allowing the Rattlers to extend their lead. The quarter concluded with a tip-in by Nadia Randall (Albuquerque, NM/Sandia High School) at the buzzer, but the Rattlers maintained their advantage, leading 58–51.

In the fourth quarter, Western NM attempted to close the gap with the Rattlers by executing key plays in the paint, highlighted by Teeya Gordon's (Alamogordo, NM/Alamogordo High School) consistent offensive efforts including a layup and a jumper. Despite their push, the Rattlers maintained control with timely scoring, including a 3-pointer by Brooke Kleinig at 1:48, which extended their lead. Western NM concluded the quarter trailing after a series of strategic timeouts and attempts to regain momentum. The game ended with the Rattlers securing a 79–67 victory.

Sapien led Western NM with 23 points, making 8 of 14 field goal attempts, including three 3-pointers. Sapien also distributed the ball effectively, recording six assists. Villarreal contributed 11 points and collected five rebounds. Randall was efficient from the floor, scoring seven points on a perfect 3-for-3 shooting performance.

Maynou led the offensive effort with a perfect 5-for-5 shooting performance, including two 3-pointers, contributing a team-high 13 points and recording three steals. Christin Callens added 14 points, successfully converting all six of her free throw attempts and grabbing six rebounds. Malik made an impact on defense with four blocks and three steals, while also adding two assists. Lena Newby scored 12 points on six of nine shooting and collected four offensive rebounds, contributing to second-chance opportunities. Andrea Montesinos facilitated the offense with five assists, demonstrating strong ball distribution.

Western NM holds an overall record of 0-7 and is 0-1 in Lone Star competition. The Rattlers are undefeated at 6-0 overall and 1-0 in Lone Star play.

In their next game, Western NM will face St. Edward's on Saturday, Dec. 6 in Austin, Texas. The matchup presents an opportunity for the Mustangs to compete on the road.
 

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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).