Yuma, AZ — Cochise vs. AZ Western —Dallas Polk-Hilliard
Photo credit: Amanda Helt
Yuma, AZ —The Cochise College men’s basketball team traveled to Yuma Saturday for the game of the week in the ACCAC and they didn’t disappoint.
The Apaches left with an 84-81 victory, improving their record to 9-1 overall and 4-1 in conference.
The Apaches came out strong, scoring the ball with ease, but so did the Matadors.
Arizona Western was able to take the lead in the first half with strong play by Andre Nikita who scored 16 points in the half.
The Apaches buckled down the second half and played great team defense to leave “The House” with the win.
Head coach Jerry Carrillo had this to say about the win, “Our guys did an excellent job of sticking to the game plan and executing it. Playing at [Arizona] Western is always a fun and tough environment, I am proud of our guys.”
Five Apaches scored in double figures making it an all-around effort, once again.
Jawan Stepney, Arell Hennings, and Dallas Polk-Hilliard all finished with 14 points.
Emanual Shepherd had yet another double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds, while Brandell Evans came off the bench with 11 big points.
This is the second year Cochise has traveled to Yuma and come back with a victory.
The Apaches will finish their three-game road trip at Pima this Wednesday.
Cochise is looking to avenge its sweep by the Aztecs last year.
“After two big wins on the road we are looking to continue this, our success with another victory. Our guys are focused and after two practices will be ready to go,” says assistant coach Derek Lane.
The game will be at the West Campus gym in Tucson. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m.