LAKEWOOD, CO – Looking to pull off an upset, the Cougars battled back late but couldn't nab a victory against No. 25 Colorado Mesa.
Despite trailing by double figures, Colorado Christian was able to pull within single digits in the final minutes but the Mavericks registered a 61-56 victory.
HOW IT HAPPENED: The nationally ranked Mavericks built a 21-point lead early in the third quarter but a pesky Cougars squad fought back to within single digits. By the end of the frame the home team was down just eight points (45-37).
As the fourth quarter unfolded the Cougars stayed close as they nailed half of their 14 field goal attempts. With 3:33 remaining Marie Tsoungui hit a jumper in the paint to bring Colorado Christian within five points (51-46).
Down the stretch the Cougar stayed within single digits but never could get their deficit under five points. Each time the home made a basket and tried to build momentum; the Mavericks responded with points of their own.
A major aid in the visitors victory came from behind the arc as they made 11 shots from deep while the Cougars made three.
COUGAR LEADERS: Sam Nunez went 8-for-16 from the floor en route to her 18-point evening. The tandem of Tsoungui and Taylor Ferris each registered 12 points. Ferris also grabbed a team high six rebounds.
INSIDE THE BOXSCORE
- Colorado Christian made two more field goals (23-21)
- The Mavericks held a 17-6 edge for points off turnovers
- Down low the Cougars won the battle underneath by outscoring Colorado Mesa 34-18
UP NEXT: The Cougars continue their homestand on Friday, Feb. 7 when they host Fort Lewis at 5 p.m.
