Western New Mexico University Men's Basketball made program history today, receiving nine votes in the latest NABC Division II Coaches Poll for the first time in the Division II era. The national recognition reflects a season of consistent success and a team that has established itself as one of the Lone Star Conference's most physical and disciplined groups on both ends of the floor.
The Mustangs have been elite defensively, leading the LSC in opponent field goal percentage (41%) and opponent three-point percentage (28.9%), while also sitting atop the conference in blocks (92 total, 4.6 per game). WNMU has controlled the paint and the glass as well, leading the conference in combined rebounding (39.7 per game). Offensively, the Mustangs have thrived at the line, ranking second in the LSC in free throw percentage (75.9%), 14th nationally in free throw attempts, and sixth in the nation in free throws made per game, with Cortavious Seales ranking sixth in the conference in scoring at 16.1 points per game.
"I'm extremely proud of our program and this accomplishment for our team." Said Head Coach Mark Bunker. "This kind of recognition is well deserved for our university, the Silver City community, and our athletic department. While we know we still have a long way to go, we're moving in the right direction toward achieving our goals this season."
Receiving votes in the NABC Division II Coaches Poll marks a historic step forward for the program and serves as a testament to the work being done inside the WNMU locker room.
As the season continues, the Mustangs are no longer just turning heads within the Lone Star Conference - they are announcing themselves on the national stage.
Â
***
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).
