NORTH LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The College of Southern Nevada women's basketball team battled through a competitive first half but could not overcome a pivotal third-quarter surge from Cochise College, falling 64–57 on Friday night in ACCAC action at the Coyote Event Center.
The contest opened with back-and-forth scoring and defensive pressure from both sides. Cochise edged CSN 23–22 after the first quarter, capitalizing on perimeter shooting to establish an early rhythm. The Lady Coyotes responded in the second period with their strongest stretch of the night, tightening defensively and finding offensive balance.
CSN outscored the Apaches 15–9 in the second quarter, limiting Cochise to just three field goals in the frame while converting key opportunities inside. A late scoring push helped the Lady Coyotes carry a 37–32 advantage into halftime and seize momentum heading into the break.
That momentum shifted quickly in the third quarter. Cochise knocked down four three-pointers in the period and shot 43.8 percent from the field, turning a five-point halftime deficit into a four-point lead. The Apaches outscored CSN 19–10 in the quarter, forcing turnovers and capitalizing in transition to take a 51–47 edge into the final 10 minutes.
The fourth quarter remained within reach for CSN. The Lady Coyotes trimmed the deficit to two possessions on multiple occasions, fueled by aggressive drives and trips to the free-throw line. However, Cochise answered each run with timely baskets and defensive stops, extending its lead to as many as 10 points in the closing minute before securing the seven-point victory.
Saroiya Ajomale led all scorers with 27 points and added eight rebounds. She was nearly perfect at the free-throw line, converting 15-of-16 attempts and keeping CSN within striking distance throughout the second half.
Trista Mabry delivered a well-rounded performance with 12 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three blocks, providing energy on both ends of the floor. Satsuki Bradley added nine points, while Alanna Jackson contributed seven points and eight rebounds in the paint.
As a team, CSN shot 28.8 percent (19-of-66) from the field and 81.0 percent (17-of-21) from the free-throw line. Cochise finished at 42.4 percent (25-of-59) from the floor and connected on nine three-pointers, a key difference in the contest.
Up Next: CSN returns to action on Wednesday, Feb. 18, hosting Yavapai College at 5:30 p.m. at the Coyote Event Center in North Las Vegas.
For complete coverage of CSN Women's Basketball, visit www.csncoyotes.com.
