Fort Lewis College defeated Western New Mexico University (WNMU) 83-57 in the Conference Crossover held at the John A. Wilson Complex in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The event was hosted by New Mexico Highlands University.
Fort Lewis established an early lead, finishing the first quarter ahead 31-9. Jordan Sapien of WNMU contributed a jumper and two free throws late in the opening period, but the Mustangs struggled with turnovers, recording seven in the quarter.
In the second quarter, Yvanna Villarreal hit a three-pointer for WNMU with an assist from Sapien, followed by another score from Sapien that helped narrow Fort Lewis's advantage. However, turnovers continued to be an issue for WNMU as they accumulated seven more in this period. By halftime, Fort Lewis led 48-25.
The Mustangs increased their efforts in the third quarter. Teeya Gordon scored two layups with assists from Sapien, and Villarreal added another three-pointer late in the period. Despite these efforts and improved play inside, WNMU ended the third trailing 62-41.
In the final quarter, Villarreal made another three-pointer assisted by Brelee Nichols while Nadia Randall contributed a layup and a three-point shot during a late surge. Turnovers remained problematic for WNMU with five more committed before Fort Lewis secured their win.
Villarreal finished with 21 points—including three shots from beyond the arc—and four rebounds for WNMU. Sapien scored 18 points along with six free throws and two steals; Gordon added nine points and six rebounds; Randall posted seven points including one three-pointer.
For Fort Lewis College, Josie Davis led defensively with nine points, three steals, two blocks, and seven rebounds. Claudia Palacio Gamez provided ten points and four assists alongside two steals; Savanna Dotray also had ten points making both her attempts from deep; Katie Lamb recorded eight points plus three steals and three assists.
Following this game, Western New Mexico is now 0-1 overall while Fort Lewis begins its season at 1-0.
WNMU’s next game is scheduled against New Mexico Highlands University on Saturday Nov. 15 at 6 p.m., again at Las Vegas’ John A. Wilson Complex.
