Matadors’ hot start fades as AWC falls to Mesa, 43-33

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Arizona Western looked locked in early Wednesday night, jumping out to a 16–6 lead in the first quarter and controlling the tempo on their home floor.

But after a strong first half, the Matadors' offense went ice-cold, scoring just seven total points in the second half as they fell 43-33 to Mesa Community College.

AWC's defense kept them in it holding Mesa to under 30% shooting but 22 turnovers proved costly, as the Matadors struggled to generate rhythm after halftime.

Chen Pan once again set the tone, leading Arizona Western with 11 points, three steals, and two assists while playing 35 minutes.

Mable Doumbia battled on the boards, finishing with eight rebounds and six points, and Kimora Jenkins added six rebounds off the bench. The Matadors also held a 36-32 edge on the glass.

But despite the energy and effort, the shots simply wouldn't fall. AWC went 2-for-15 from three and managed only two points in the fourth quarter as Mesa’s pressure tightened.

Arizona Western drops to 3-6 on the season but showed stretches of strong play, especially defensively and on the boards.

With conference play still ahead, the Matadors will look to build on the early positives and find more consistency closing out games.