by Las Vegas, New Mexico – The Cowgirls exploded for 56 second half points to race past Black Hills State 77-63 Thursday evening. With the win, NMHU improves to 6-7 overall and 3-4 in conference play.
Thursday’s win was New Mexico Highlands’ first ever over Black Hills State in a series that dates back to the 2012-13 season.
Black Hills State led at the half by a score of 30-21. They pushed that advantage to an 11 point lead, 34-23, two minutes into the third quarter. The Cowgirls took the lead for good,42-40 on a jumper by Emma Christiano as they outscored the visitors 30-17 in the third quarter. The fourth quarter saw NMHU with a 26-16 advantage en route to the 14 point win.
“I’m unbelievably proud of this team, the way they fought to come back,” said Head Coach Lindsey Fearing. “They worked so hard together and did something tonight a lot of people didn’t think was possible. When you have everyone on your team believe great things can happen. Another one for the history books!”
Four Cowgirls scored in double figures led by Kapiolani Anitielu’s career high 28 points. Juliana Aragon scored 16 points while Aspen Salazar had 15 and Aniya Johnson added 10.
Johnson was NMHU’s leading rebounder with seven.
The Cowgirls shot 44.8% from the floor and 87.5% from the free throw line.
NMHU outrebounded Black Hills State 32-28.
