Cochise opens season with lopsided win over Community Christian

DOUGLAS, Ariz. -- Coming off one of the most successful seasons in their history, a 29-3 overall record with an undefeated 22-0 conference record, which included a historic 27-game winning streak, the Cochise College Men's Basketball team picked up right where they left off rolling over Community Christian College (Redlands, CA) 125-66 on Wednesday night. The Apaches return a core of experienced Sophomores which include Riley Parker, Jordan Hernandez, Jalen Barbee, and Tracy Godfrey, along with talented Freshmen Joshua Whiteside and Lewis Wossnam. Cochise also brings in a Sophomore transfer Merrick Small from Missouri State University-West Plains who is expected to make up for the loss of Oscar Cluff who made his way to NCAA D-I Washington State University.

This "win now"-built roster has head Coach Jerry Carrillo aiming for another National Tournament bid in his 29th season at the helm. 

Cochise began Wednesday night's game with a 66-20 lead at the halfway mark with Barbee scoring 17 points with a rebound and 3 assists. The Apaches controlled every facet of the game stifling the Saints' offense keeping them to a 27.1 FG% and forcing 41 turnovers. The Apaches finished the game 26-42 from the field with Sophomore Diego Sharp leading all scorers with 23 points coming off of the bench. Most of Sharp's points came from beyond the arc as he was 4-5 on the day from 3-point land. Hernandez finished with 21 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. Barbee with 19 points, 5 assists, and 7 rebounds. 

"It was a great feeling getting back into the Stronghold Gym and starting another NJCAA season versus an NJCAA Region 18 opponent," stated Coach Carillo following the game. "Our guys really showed great teamwork in sharing the ball and playing great team defense. Having five guys on the floor and 10 guys constantly supporting them is always fun to be a part of….it is so good in today's athletically selfish environment. To start the season with an NJCAA DI win over a Region 18 opponent is a good start".

Up Next...

Cochise Men's Basketball (1-0) will host AZ Sol Post Grad on Saturday, November 4th at 2:00 pm inside of Cochise Stronghold Gymnasium. There is no entry fee and concessions and Cochise merchandise will be available for sale.