Women's Basketball continues winning streak, defeats Yavapai and Phoenix
DOUGLAS, Ariz. -- The first week of 2023 has been filled with success for the Apaches! They end the week with two stellar wins to start the new year, continuing their winning streak with six straight wins. On January 4th the Apaches took on the Roughriders of Yavapai College, who are in their first season in school history. The Roughriders put up a fight after being down 20 points at halftime and closed the gap in the second half, losing by only 10 points at the end of the contest. The Roughriders are a talented group that is capable of shooting the air out of the ball, as they shot an impressive 54.2% from the three-point line. In the second half, it was almost like the Roughriders could not miss. Despite the shooting exhibit put on display by the Roughriders, the Apaches were able to withstand their run and come out with the win. With big double-digit performances from freshman Chana Paxixe, Alayna Contreras and NJCAA Player of the week (Dec. 29-31) Maeva de la Fortuna Ngnawo, the Apaches avoided the upset and secured the double-digit win. Paxixe poured in 12 points and grabbed 6 rebounds, Contreras shot a steaming hot 50% from the three-point line and contributed 13 points and 5 assists, and Ngnawo led the team with a dominant 22 points and 12 rebounds. In the last four games, Ngnawo has secured three double-doubles and currently is 9th in the nation in offensive rebounds. Sophomore Tatjana Tatar displayed her known shooting ability in the contest shooting 75% from the three-point line.
The Apaches finished the week with a dominant win over Phoenix College. Calling off their smothering full-court press offense midway through the game, the Apaches were still able to hold the Bears to under 45 points and poured in an astounding 84 points. Cochise was led by Sophomore Deja Jones who scored a season-high 20 points and secured her first double-double of the season, with 12 rebounds. Freshman Andjela Bigovic shot a blazing 67% from the three-point line.
The Apaches move to 13-2 on the season and prepare for a battle against Central Arizona College on January 11th at home. The Apaches will end the week with a matchup at home against Chandler-Gilbert Community College; on January 14th.