Western New Mexico University’s women’s basketball team fell to MSU Denver 91-74 in a non-conference matchup at the Auraria Events Center in Denver. The Mustangs, now 0-4 on the season, led the rebounding battle with 48 boards but were hampered by 24 turnovers that resulted in 34 points for their opponents.
The game opened with both teams trading leads. MSU Denver started strong with a 7-0 run before Western New Mexico responded with points inside and on fast breaks. Teeya Gordon scored on a layup early in the first quarter, and Angelina Khalaf followed with another layup and a free throw, narrowing the gap. Jordan Sapien briefly gave the Mustangs the lead late in the quarter, but MSU Denver closed out the period ahead 20-18.
In the second quarter, Western New Mexico managed to outscore MSU Denver 25-24 despite ongoing turnover issues. Gordon contributed key baskets in the paint, while Natalie Magallnes hit a three-pointer late in the half. The Mustangs finished on a 10-2 run capped by Sapien’s three-pointer, bringing them within one point at halftime (44-43).
The third quarter saw Western New Mexico take a brief lead after Gordon’s tip-in. However, MSU Denver answered quickly and regained control of the game. Magallnes connected from long range to keep it close at 59-54 late in the period, but MSU Denver held onto its advantage entering the fourth quarter up 61-57.
Western New Mexico continued to push back in the final period. Sapien made two free throws early to cut into the deficit, and Yvanna Villarreal added a three-pointer as time wound down. Despite these efforts, turnovers continued to be an issue and MSU Denver pulled away for a comfortable win.
Gordon led all Mustang scorers with 19 points along with nine rebounds and two blocks. Khalaf added 13 points while making all five of her free throws; Sapien finished with 12 points, four assists, and seven rebounds; Magallnes chipped in with 11 points including three shots from beyond the arc.
For MSU Denver, Sarah Nocke tallied 17 points—hitting five of six three-point attempts—and added three steals and three rebounds. Jadyn Watts also scored 17 points and grabbed nine rebounds while recording four steals. Mikylah Espinosa had 12 points plus five assists and four steals; Nevaeh Millard was perfect from the line (7-for-7) for her total of eleven points.
Western New Mexico remains winless this season at 0-4 overall while MSU Denver improves to 1-4.
The Mustangs will next play against University of Colorado at Colorado Springs on Wednesday, November 26 at 1 p.m. Mountain Time in Denver.
For more information about Mustang Athletics or upcoming games visit www.wnmumustangs.com or follow @WNMUathletics on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, or Instagram.
