SILVER CITY, NM  — Western New Mexico University (9-2, 3-1 Lone Star) secured an 84-81 victory over number 14 West Texas A&M University (11-3, 3-1 Lone Star) on Friday night at Drag's Court. This win was particularly significant as it marked the first time Western NM has beaten West Texas in the division two era. The Mustangs' strong defensive performance included seven blocks, which proved crucial in the narrow win.

The game opened with the Mustangs striking first as Andre Harris (Mesa, AZ/Hillcrest Prep) connected on a jumper, setting the tone for a back-and-forth first half. Isaiah Broady (Chandler, AZ/Arizona Compass Prep) led the Mustangs early with a string of successful shots, including a 3-pointer at 18:05, contributing to an initial 9–3 lead. However, the Buffs, responded, narrowing the gap and eventually leveling the score multiple times.

As the half progressed, Western NM showcased strong rebounding and bench contributions, particularly from Tanner Poeschl (Fountain Hills, AZ/Skyline High School), who tipped in a basket to keep the pressure on. Despite turnovers that allowed the Buffs to capitalize, a fast-break 3-pointer by Nolan Brown at 1:47 tied the score. The first half concluded in a tight 39–39 tie, setting up a tense continuation of play.

Western NM surged ahead early in the second half with a series of offensive plays, including a dunk by Broady at 18:00 that extended their lead to 43–39. Keylon Dorsey (Houston, TX/Eisenhower High School) contributed significantly with a 3-pointer and a layup, pushing the home team's advantage to 48–41 by 15:51. Despite a strong challenge from the Buffs, which included a late tie at 69–69, the Mustangs managed to even the score at 71–71 with a jumper by Cortaviaus Seales (Rock Island, IL/North Scott High School) with 23 seconds remaining. The half ended in a 32–32 draw, culminating in a 71–71 tie at the end of regulation.

Western NM maintained their edge in overtime, highlighted by Brown's crucial 3-pointer at 3:21, which extended their lead to 76–72. Seales contributed with a timely assist and a jumper that helped keep the Mustangs ahead. Despite the Buffs' attempts to close the gap, the Mustangs secured the period with a strong defensive rebound by Quincy Adams (Frisco, TX/Hamilton High School) in the final seconds. The game concluded with the Mustangs on top, 84–81.

Broady scored 21 points, converting 9 of 13 from the field, and recorded three blocks. Brown collected 10 rebounds while adding 15 points, including three 3-pointers. Seales posted 19 points and made 7 of 8 free throws. Harris contributed 15 points and dished out three assists. 

"I am really proud of the way the entire group battled tonight", said Head Coach Mark Bunker. "Our back were against the wall but we kept competing the entire game. Guys like NoNo Brown (Gilbert, AZ/Perry High School) and Isaiah Broady (Chandler, AZ/Arizona Compass Prep) were big for us on both ends. When a point guard can go get us a double-double, it just shows how bad these guys want to win."

Fontaine Williams led the team with 26 points, connecting on 8 of 17 field goals, including two 3-pointers, and was 8 of 10 from the free-throw line. Williams also contributed three steals. Zach Brown added 15 points, making all six of his free throw attempts and securing four rebounds. Kemper Jones scored 13 points, hitting three 3-pointers and shooting 5 of 9 from the field. Brendan Ballard made an impact defensively with two blocks and two steals while also collecting four rebounds.

Western NM holds an 9-2 overall record and is 3-1 in Lone Star play. The Buffs are currently 11-3 overall with a 3-1 record in the Lone Star conference.

The next challenge for the Mustangs is a home matchup against ranked, Eastern New Mexico. The game is set for Sunday, Jan. 4 at 2 p.m. at Drag's Court.
 

***

 
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).