PRICE, Utah – Arizona Western College men's basketball (3-2) dropped a hard-fought non-conference matchup at Snow College, 80-70, on Saturday in Day 2 of the Invitational. The Matadors erased several double-digit deficits and saw their bench tally 50 points, but Snow College's hot second-half shooting proved decisive.

Arizona Western traded baskets with Snow College in a tight first half, trailing just 34-31 at halftime. Early in the second half, the Matadors rallied behind a dunk and free throw from Illiam Fevry to cut the lead to 36-34, keeping the game within one possession. Snow College responded immediately with a 10-0 run, pushing the margin to 46-34 and shifting momentum for the rest of the contest.

The Matadors' depth continued to shine as their reserves contributed a season-high 50 points, outpacing Snow College's bench 50-21. Despite closing the gap to eight late in the game on a three-pointer from Mario Brunetto, Arizona Western could not overcome Snow's 53.1 percent shooting and a second-half lead that swelled to as many as 17 points.

Mario Brunetto led the Matadors with 18 points on 6-for-12 shooting, connecting on three three-pointers and making all three of his free throws. He scored in double figures in both halves, including clutch shots to keep Arizona Western within reach.

Boubacar Diatta added 10 points and four rebounds, providing a steady presence inside and converting both of his free throw attempts. Illiam Fevry stuffed the stat sheet with nine points, four rebounds, two assists, one block and one steal in 27 minutes of action.

Paora Winitana contributed six points, five rebounds and a team-high four assists, helping Arizona Western capitalize on second-chance opportunities and maintain offensive flow. The Matadors also shot 84.6 percent from the free throw line, staying efficient at the stripe.

Up Next

Arizona Western continues its road trip Wednesday, Nov. 12 at Scottsdale Community College, with tipoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m.