Western New Mexico University's women's basketball team lost to New Mexico Highlands University with a score of 92-43 at Drag's Court. The Mustangs, now 0-3 for the season, struggled with turnovers throughout the game, giving up the ball 33 times. This allowed the Cowgirls to capitalize and take control, especially during a third quarter in which they outscored the Mustangs 33-7.
Yvanna Villarreal led Western New Mexico with 12 points on 5-of-15 shooting. Brelee Nichols contributed eight points, five rebounds, and three steals. Tess Taylor added two steals on defense, while Angelina Khalaf scored six points and matched Nichols' five rebounds.
For New Mexico Highlands, Kapiolani Anitielu scored 14 points and had six steals. Aniya Johnson led all scorers with 19 points and was efficient from both the field and free throw line. Aspen Salazar added 12 points and four steals, making all six of her free throws. Kamalani Anitielu also scored 12 points, hitting both her attempts from beyond the arc.
The game began with Khalaf grabbing a defensive rebound for WNMU before Villarreal opened scoring with a layup. However, the Cowgirls quickly responded and built an early lead through consistent offense from several players. Despite some efforts by Nichols late in the first quarter, WNMU trailed 18-12 after one period.
In the second quarter, New Mexico Highlands continued their momentum as Kapiolani Anitielu hit an early three-pointer. Turnovers again hampered WNMU's ability to keep pace as the Cowgirls pulled ahead further by halftime.
The third quarter saw Highlands pull away decisively. Hailey Long helped set the tone early for NMHU as WNMU committed another twelve turnovers in that period alone. The Mustangs were unable to close the gap despite a three-pointer from Nichols near quarter’s end.
In the final quarter, NMHU extended their lead behind contributions from Adrianna Torrez and Jessie Ford. A late three-pointer by Villarreal provided a brief highlight for WNMU before NMHU secured their victory.
Western New Mexico will next face Metropolitan State University of Denver on Tuesday at 6 p.m. MT in Denver.
"Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram)."
