CCU played a decent first half, but every time they made an adjustment on defense, the Cowboys would modify their offense.  Highlands had a versatile and quick offense that could score from the inside and on the perimeter.  NMHU was shooting 55% from the field and 50% from three.  While being pressured in their defense, CCU could not hit a three-pointer (1-7) which led to such a large deficit after the first half 48-31.  At the half Marcus Fager led with nine points and four rebounds. 
 
It was a difficult game for the Cougs as they were beat on the inside almost every drive.  Also, the Cowboys didn't miss a shot.  New Mexico's Nmamdi Okoro was overpowering and unstoppable scoring 36 points with 14 rebounds.  The second half presented to be a much worse battle than expected as the Cougars were down 30 points 75-45 with nine minutes left.  They weren't able to turn it around and lost 96-61.
 
Scoring high for the Cougs was CCU junior Jeremiah Hanson with 13 points.  Right behind him was Justin Engesser who scored 12 points and Christian Hyatt had 10. 
 
CCU will be at Colorado School of Mines on Tuesday Jan. 20th for a 7:30 PM tip-off.