Skyhawks Men and Women Basketball Teams Triumph in Season Openers

The Fort Lewis College (FLC) men’s and women’s basketball teams both secured victories in their season openers, showcasing impressive performances on March 15, 2024. The men’s team defeated Eastern New Mexico 76-73, while the women’s squad dominated Western New Mexico with an 83-57 win.

Men’s Team Overcomes Adversity in Narrow Win

In a thrilling match held in Portales, New Mexico, redshirt sophomore guard Jaxon Smith made a significant impact in his first game for the Skyhawks. Known as a shooter during his time in the transfer portal, Smith scored a team-high 28 points, shooting 9-15 from the field, 7-11 from beyond the arc, and 3-3 from the free-throw line. Despite facing challenges, including 21 offensive rebounds conceded and 16 turnovers, the Skyhawks managed to clinch the victory.

FLC found itself trailing by seven points with under eight minutes remaining. However, the team’s signature pressure defense began to yield results, creating turnovers that allowed them to regain control. With just six seconds left in the game, Eastern New Mexico had a chance to tie but missed the first of two crucial free throws. Donald Bangham Jr., a junior transfer guard, stepped up for FLC, sinking two free throws to secure the win.

“We didn’t play our best, but that’s a good team. They are really aggressive to the rim, and they rebound the heck out of the ball,” said Jordan Mast, head coach of the FLC men’s basketball team.

Mast noted that Smith’s shooting prowess caught Eastern New Mexico off guard early in the game, allowing him to find open looks. FLC’s overall shooting statistics were strong, with the team hitting 47% of shots from the field and 56% from three-point range.

Fifth-year forward Chuol Deng contributed 12 points and led the team with eight rebounds, while junior guard Yorgio Golesis added 10 points. Eastern New Mexico fell to 0-1 after shooting 41% from the field and 19% from three-point range.

Women’s Team Delivers Commanding Performance

In contrast to the nail-biting finish of the men’s game, the FLC women’s basketball team enjoyed a comfortable victory against Western New Mexico. The Skyhawks led from the outset, showcasing their offensive and defensive strengths. By the end of the first quarter, FLC had established a commanding 22-point lead and maintained their dominance throughout the game.

FLC’s shooting was impressive, with the team hitting 50% from the field and 50% from three-point range. Ten players contributed to the scoring, with sophomore guard Claudia Palacio Gámez and freshman guard Savannah Dotray each finishing with 10 points. Despite committing 20 turnovers, the Skyhawks out-rebounded their opponents 41-31.

The first basket of the season for FLC came from Palacio Gámez, who executed a well-timed curl off a screen for a smooth finish. The team’s pace was relentless, racing to an early 13-2 lead. Sophomore guard Katie Lamb showcased her shooting skills with two three-pointers that did not touch the rim, further extending the lead.

As the game progressed, FLC continued to control the tempo, with Lamb capping off a strong first half by hitting a three-pointer from long range, bringing the score to 48-25 at halftime. The Skyhawks maintained their lead throughout the second half, allowing them to secure a comfortable victory.

The FLC men’s team will quickly turn their attention to their next game against Western New Mexico on March 16 at 17:00, while the women’s team will face Cameron University earlier that same day at 13:00 in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Both teams will look to build on their strong season openers as they aim for continued success in the coming matches.