Cochise MBB falls in West District Championship game to Salt Lake CC 89-80

The Cochise College men's basketball team lost its bid for back-to-back west district championships with a hard-fought 89-80 loss to Salt Lake Community College, the NJCAA #1 team in the nation in front of a packed Stronghold gymnasium on Saturday, March 5.

The Apaches were down 46-43 at halftime, and the score was tied up at 60 apiece with 10 minutes to go in the game. Cochise could not capitalize on some free throw situations, and the Bruins of Salt Lake made big plays down the stretch.

Cochise was led by freshman Oscar Cluff, who tallied another double-double on the season with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Freshman guard Tyreese Watson added 18 points on the night.

Cochise ended the season with a school record of 29 wins and finished 29-4 overall.

"We are proud of the team, as we competed and showed that we can play anyone in the nation," said Coach Jerry Carrillo. "Our guys have nothing to be ashamed of due to the great season we had."