LAS VEGAS, NM- The Cougars hit the road for their final contest of 2025 as they took on New Mexico Highlands in a non-conference matchup. After a back and forth first half, CCU pulled away in the second to claim a  strong 80-63 victory. 

The Cowboys came out strong on their home court, racing to an 8-0 lead early. Joshua Reid stopped the momentum with a three-pointer, and Jimmy House began what would be a career night with a three of his own to make it 13-6. House splashed in another three moments later, and he remained lights out with his third three-pointer to put his team on top 14-13. 

Pierce Bazil got a layup to go, and House remained red hot with another three to give the Cougars a 23-17 advantage. Lincoln Cantrall made it a nine point lead with a three-pointer, but a late rally from NMHU sent the two teams to halftime with CCU on top 37-35. 

Reid started the half well as he drilled a shot from beyond the arc, and a momentum-swinging dunk from Schafer Reichart put CCU ahead 46-41. Reichart continued to lead his team, putting in a layup and nailing a three, and Porter Bazil connected from downtown for the 56-45 lead. 

House put in a layup, and Reichart gave his team their largest lead yet after a three made it 70-55. CCU controlled the game for the final minutes as Zachary Reed closed the scoring with a jumper as the Cougars closed out the 80-63 victory. 

House had a career game, leading his team with 17 points on 5-6 shooting from beyond the arc as he lit up the scoreboard. Schafer was stellar with 16 points and a pair of steals, while Porter had 12 points followed by Reid with 11. Andrew Reichart led on the boards with seven followed by 5 apiece from Ezra Guest and Pierce. 

The Cougars close 2025 with momentum after a strong road win and will continue play in 2026 on January 2 at home against Northern New Mexico College at 3 p.m. MST inside the CCU Event Center.