YUMA, Ariz. - The Central Arizona Vaqueras (10-5) return to Arizona Western after a successful showing during the Chapman Automotive Winter Classic in December. The Vaqueras finished 2-1 during the invitational with - wins over Northwest College and Dawson and falling to #18 Casper College in Central Arizona's final game of the invitational. The Vaqueras opened the 2026 portion of the schedule with a win over Scottsdale College on January 3rd. This afternoon's showdown is the first of three meetings this season between Central Arizona and Arizona Western and also kicks off ACCAC play. Arizona Western (7-7) enter the contest on a two-game winning streak. The Lady Matadors won their final two games of the Chapman Automotive Winter Classic with wins over Northwest College and Dawson. On a matchup note, the Lady Matadors ride a four-game win streak over Central Arizona, sweeping the season three game series a year ago. The last win for Central Arizona over Arizona Western came on March 1, 2023. 

Key Storylines

The first contest between Arizona Western and Central Arizona sets the tone for a ACCAC play. • Clash of styles: Central Arizona leans on star scoring from Tianna Knighton (18.0 PPG) and Aniyah Riddell (16.7 PPG), while Arizona Western counters with balanced production led by Mable Doumbia (13.1 PPG) and Chen Pan (12.2 PPG). • Common opponents: Versus Casper, Dawson, and Northwest, Central Arizona averaged 77.7 PPG but allowed 62.3 PPG, while Arizona Western held those opponents to 48.3 PPG in lower-scoring games. • Momentum vs. consistency: Arizona Western enters on a two-game win streak; Central Arizona has been steadier overall at 10-5 and is 4-1 in its last five.

About the Team (Arizona Western)

Arizona Western (7-7) has found traction with two straight wins and a defense-first identity that has kept recent opponents in check. Against common foes, the Matadors held Dawson to 34 points and Northwest to 50, part of a trend that has kept games at a controlled pace. Offensively, AWC relies on depth and balance: Mable Doumbia leads at 13.1 PPG, with Chen Pan adding 12.2 PPG. That balance will be pivotal in matching Central Arizona's top-heavy scoring while maintaining the defensive standard that's fueled their momentum.

About the Opponent (Central Arizona)

Central Arizona (10-5) brings consistent form and marquee scoring. The Vaqueras have won four of their last five behind the prolific duo of Tianna Knighton (18.0 PPG) and Aniyah Riddell (16.7 PPG). In recent games against Casper, Dawson, and Northwest, CAC averaged 77.7 points per contest, underscoring an offensive edge, though they allowed 62.3 PPG in those matchups. How their firepower fares against AWC's defensive discipline likely dictates the tempo and outcome.

Game details

Tipoff is set for 2:00 pm this afternoon in "The House." Game will also be livestreamed on the Matador Sports Stream: https://portal.stretchinternet.com/awcmatadors