THATCHER, Ariz. — Behind a dominant performance from University of Florida commit Sarah Deng, No. 16 Eastern Arizona College defeated No. 23 Cochise College 53-48 on Tuesday night, securing a key ACCAC victory at home.
Deng, a sophomore forward, showcased why she’s bound for the SEC, scoring a game-high 22 points while adding nine rebounds and four assists. Her clutch play in the fourth quarter sealed the win for the Gila Monsters (7-3, 2-1 ACCAC).
Cochise (4-3, 0-1ACCAC) led 27-22 at halftime, fueled by strong inside play from Karolina Padilla, who finished with 16 points and five rebounds. The Apaches capitalized on turnovers and second-chance points to build their early lead.
Eastern Arizona flipped the script in the second half, using a 17-11 run in the third quarter to take a slim 39-38 lead. Guard Danaeja Romero provided critical scoring off the bench, hitting three 3-pointers en route to 11 points. Guard Trinity Mayer added eight points, including five from the free-throw line.
In the fourth quarter, Deng and Romero took control, combining for crucial buckets and defensive stops. A late layup by Deng gave the Gila Monsters a five-point cushion they would not relinquish, despite a late push from Cochise.
The Apaches struggled to find offensive rhythm in the second half, shooting just 34.6% from the field and 8.3% from 3-point range. Guard Kaylynn Asberry contributed 10 points and four assists for Cochise, while forward Michelle Nkolo led all players with 10 rebounds.
The Gila Monsters, now 7-3 overall and 2-1 in ACCAC play, will look to build on this momentum as they travel to take on Central Arizona on Saturday.
Game Notes:
- Eastern Arizona outrebounded Cochise 33-29, including 12 offensive rebounds.
- Sarah Deng shot 7-of-10 from the field and 7-of-11 from the free-throw line.
