Apaches increase win streak to 8 in row with win over Gila Monsters
The Cochise College Apaches overcame a 10 point halftime deficit with a strong second-half showing to defeat the Eastern Arizona Gila Monsters in front of a noisy yet “socially distanced” crowd on the campus of Eastern Arizona College. Coach Jerry Carrillo stated, “That was a terrific team win on the road. Our guys really battled back in the second half. To beat a conference foe 4 times in one season is a feat in itself. Adding a 2 week COVID pause to the mix is even a greater challenge. I cannot say enough about the effort and production from our bench as Kalep , Johnny and Donte all had productive nights to help us win. This is a very good group of guys to coach. ”
Cochise trailed 41-31 at intermission but used strong bench play to overcome the Gila Monsters in the second half, outscoring the Monsters 52-33. Kalep Crane, Johnny Garcia and Donte Dupriest combined for 47 points off the bench to bolster the Apache attack. Crane led the Apaches with 18 points while Garcia and Dupriest added 17 and 12 respectively. Dupriest also added 8 rebounds in the win, while Patrick Samoura tallied 10 rebounds for another double-digit night on the glass. Kyle Moore, had a solid night with 13 points and 8 rebounds for the Apaches.
With the win, the Apaches maintain their lead in the ACCAC standings with a 7-1 conference record and now stand 8-2 overall on the ‘Spring 21 season.
Next Up
Cochise will host Central Arizona College this coming Thursday, March 27th for a 7 p.m. tip in the Stronghold gymnasium.