ROSWELL, N.M. – Arizona Western College men's basketball (10-2) showed grit and offensive firepower on Saturday afternoon, rallying from a halftime deficit to defeat Trinidad State College 80-73. The Matadors leaned on a second-half surge, dominant rebounding and clutch playmaking to secure a hard-fought victory away from home, marking the seventh win in a row for the Matadors. 

In a tense contest marked by lead changes and momentum swings, Arizona Western trailed 39-38 at the break. The Matadors responded with determination, outscoring Trinidad State 42-34 in the second half to seize control. The decisive run was fueled by relentless work on the glass as Arizona Western racked up 47 rebounds, including 18 offensive boards that created valuable second-chance opportunities.

Offensively, the Matadors' efficiency set the tone. They shot 75 percent from the field and converted 92.9 percent (13-of-14) at the free-throw line, capitalizing on nearly every trip to the stripe. Their ability to adapt to the neutral site and overcome unfamiliar circumstances only added to the sense of accomplishment for a team continuing to build momentum in December.

Marsai Mason led the charge with a commanding double-double, finishing with 20 points on 9-of-12 shooting and pulling down 11 rebounds, including three on the offensive glass. Mason's steady presence inside provided the backbone for the comeback effort. Matt Anglo delivered 11 points and was a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line, adding key buckets in crunch time.

Paora Winitana anchored the hustle stats, grabbing nine rebounds—seven of which were offensive—while matching the team lead with four assists. Aaron Barton chipped in eight points, four assists and three steals, providing defensive spark and timely perimeter shooting by connecting on two of three from beyond the arc.

Arizona Western's tenacity and knack for capitalizing on second chances proved crucial in a game where every possession mattered. The Matadors' bench and collective toughness pushed them past a determined Trinidad State squad, allowing the team to head home with a boost in confidence and another win in the column.

Up Next

Arizona Western returns to Yuma for the Chapman Automotive Winter Classic, hosting Dawson Community College on Monday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. MST.