Matadors rally falls short in 70–65 loss to Monroe in Winter Classic finale
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The Arizona Western College men’s basketball team nearly completed a dramatic comeback Friday afternoon, but ultimately fell just short in a 70–65 loss to Monroe University in the Chapman Automotive Winter Classic finale at The House.
Arizona Western (10–7) erased a 13-point second-half deficit and briefly took the lead late, but Monroe made the final plays down the stretch to secure the win. The Mustangs carried a 39–31 lead into halftime as the Matadors struggled to find offensive rhythm early.
Monroe extended its advantage to 13 points early in the second half, but Arizona Western responded with a strong push inside, using rebounding and paint presence to climb back into the game. The Matadors finished with a 42–34 rebounding edge and outscored Monroe 28–12 in the paint. Turnovers, however, proved costly, as Arizona Western committed 18 turnovers compared to Monroe’s six, allowing the Mustangs to capitalize in transition.
The final minutes delivered plenty of drama. With just over a minute remaining, Aaron Barton knocked down a go-ahead three-pointer off an assist from Matt Anglo to give Arizona Western a 65–64 lead. Monroe answered quickly, as Naceiar Kirksey hit a jumper to retake the lead. A late turnover forced the Matadors to foul, and Monroe sealed the game at the free-throw line.
Marsai Mason led Arizona Western with a dominant double-double, finishing with 16 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks while shooting 7-of-14 from the field. Paora Winitana anchored the glass with 12 rebounds, including nine on the defensive end, and added five points and two assists. Barton finished with 11 points, hitting 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, and led the team with four assists.
Despite the loss, Winitana said the tournament provided valuable experience as the Matadors prepare for conference play.
“We have full confidence in each other,” Winitana said. “The most exciting thing for us is how we can push the pace and find each other. Once we start knocking down shots, we’re going to be tough to stop. Games like this help with character and team chemistry, and that’s going to help us moving forward.”
Head coach Kyle Isaacs echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the quality of competition Arizona Western faced throughout the Winter Classic.
“We played three really good teams, including two that were preseason ranked,” Isaacs said. “These were tests for us. We didn’t end up on the right side of them, but we’re going to learn from these close games and be better when conference play starts.”
Isaacs also highlighted the overall success of the Chapman Automotive Winter Classic, which featured both men’s and women’s programs.
“It was a great atmosphere for Yuma fans,” Isaacs said. “Really competitive basketball and a great experience for everyone involved.”
Up Next
Arizona Western opens ACCAC play on Saturday, January 10, when the Matadors host Central Arizona at The House.
