Yuma, AZ - In a challenging ACCAC league matchup, the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) Lady Coyotes were unable to gain traction against a formidable Arizona Western College team, falling 77-57 on their opponent's court on February 5, 2025. The defeat brings the Lady Coyotes' league record to an even 5-5 and 15-6 overall for the season. The game, played at 'The House', highlighted areas where CSN needs to focus as they prepare for their next games, including a two-game home stand against Cochise College on Friday, February 7, and Saturday, February 8.

The game started unfavorably for CSN, as Arizona Western established a strong lead right from the first quarter, ending it up 25-9. This early deficit set the tone for the rest of the game, despite the Lady Coyotes' efforts to rally back in the subsequent quarters. Saroiya Ajomale led CSN with 15 points, but struggled with her shooting, hitting only 4 of her 20 attempts from the field. The team as a whole found it difficult to convert shots, finishing with a mere 26.7% field goal percentage.

Arizona Western's defense was stifling, and their offensive output was powered by standout performances from players like Rita Gomes, who sank six three-pointers to accumulate a total of 18 points. The home team excelled in stretching the CSN defense, shooting an impressive 35.9% from beyond the arc compared to CSN's 26.3%.

The Lady Coyotes did have moments of effective play, particularly in the second quarter where they outscored Arizona Western 20-19, thanks to better shot selection and execution, evidenced by a 50% shooting from the field during this period. Bench contributions were significant too, with Trysta Barrett adding 10 points and Adrienne Puletasi chipping in with 8, all from free throws.

Despite these efforts, Arizona Western maintained control throughout, dominating the third quarter 23-13, effectively squashing any momentum CSN had built. The hosts leveraged their bench effectively, with Nyah Hardy providing a crucial 22 points, highlighting the depth that CSN struggled against.

Defensively, CSN was unable to contain the multiple threats posed by Arizona Western, who had multiple players contributing in double figures. The rebounding battle was also lost, 45-35, further illustrating the physical dominance displayed by Arizona Western throughout the game.

Looking ahead, the Lady Coyotes need to regroup and focus on their upcoming home games against Cochise College. The team will need to improve their shooting accuracy and defensive cohesion to bounce back from this tough loss. With a record now balanced at 5-5 in league play, the next games are crucial for CSN to establish a stronger position in the ACCAC standings as they aim for a successful end to the season.