SILVER CITY, N.M. — The WNMU Mustangs (13-4, 7-3 Lone Star) charged to a commanding 69-51 win over Sul Ross St. (3-12, 1-9 Lone Star) on Tuesday night at Drag's Court. The Mustangs owned the glass with a 48-36 rebounding edge, grabbing 13 offensive boards.
From the tip-off, Western New Mexico took control with sharp scoring inside. Cortaviaus Seales (Rock Island, IL/North Scott High School) was on fire early, racking up seven quick points with a layup and a jumper by the 15:26 mark. Andre Harris (Mesa, AZ/Hillcrest Prep) played a pivotal role, dishing out a key assist and swatting a shot to keep the momentum rolling.
Despite Sul Ross State's efforts to tighten the score, the Mustangs held firm, out-rebounding their rivals 25 to 17 and dishing out seven assists. The first half wrapped up with Western New Mexico leading 34–23. The Mustangs didn't let up in the second half, stretching their lead thanks to a deep bench that chipped in with 24 points.
Isaiah Broady (Chandler, AZ/Arizona Compass Prep) lit the spark with a timely three-pointer at 15:08, pushing the Mustangs further ahead. Harris and Quincy Adams (Frisco, TX/Hamilton High School) dominated in the paint, each adding crucial buckets to maintain the lead. Adams' impact extended well beyond the box score, particularly on the defensive end and at the free-throw line.
"Quincy just effects winning in so many ways that sometimes doesn't show up in a stat sheet," said head coach Mark Bunker. "He was great defensively and was solid from the line. He ended up being our highest +/- guy in the end with a +21."
Even with the Lobos hitting some threes, like those from Tim Mikhailau, the Mustangs stayed steady at the line, sinking 15 of 19 free throws. The final buzzer saw Western New Mexico sealing the deal at 69–51.
Following the win, Bunker credited the team's commitment to its identity and the habits that have driven success throughout the season. "We have to stick with what has gotten us this far," Bunker said. "By defending, rebounding, and playing tough. All of those things will travel no matter where we play, so as long as we do those things we have a chance for success."
Bunker also highlighted the chemistry and focus within the group as conference play intensifies. "They love playing for each other and they know how important every game is," he said. "We have daily, weekly, monthly, and season goals and we try not to look too far down the line to make sure we do the little things well so we are capable to do the hard things."
Next up, the Mustangs hit the road to take on UT Dallas on Thursday, Jan. 22. The game tips off at 6:30 P.M. MT at the UT Dallas campus in Richardson, 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).
