YUMA, Ariz. – Arizona Western College men's basketball (10-5) dropped a hard-fought contest to Monroe University 70-65 on Friday afternoon in the Chapman Automotive Winter Classic finale. Despite erasing a 13-point second-half deficit and briefly taking the lead late, the Matadors were edged in the final minute by the Mustangs.

Monroe set the tone early, taking a 39-31 advantage into the break as Arizona Western struggled to find rhythm offensively. The Matadors faced additional adversity when Monroe extended its lead to 13 early in the second half, but the hosts responded with resilience, dominating the paint and forcing their way back into contention. Arizona Western controlled the glass, finishing with a 42-34 rebounding advantage and outscoring Monroe 28-12 in the paint. However, turnover trouble plagued the Matadors throughout, as they committed 18 turnovers to Monroe's six, allowing the Mustangs to capitalize in transition.

The late stages provided plenty of drama in the Winter Classic opener. After battling back, Arizona Western seized a 65-64 lead with 1:15 left when Aaron Barton sank a go-ahead three-pointer, assisted by Matt Anglo. Monroe quickly answered, retaking the lead on Naceiar Kirksey's jumper. With Arizona Western trailing by one in the closing seconds, a turnover forced the Matadors to foul, and Monroe iced the game at the free-throw line.

Marsai Mason powered the Matadors inside, delivering a double-double performance with 16 points, 14 rebounds and 3 blocks while shooting 7-of-14 from the field. Paora Winitana anchored the glass with 12 rebounds, including 9 on the defensive end, and added 5 points and 2 assists. Barton added 11 points, hitting 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, and led the team with 4 assists.

Despite the Matadors' dominance inside, cold shooting from three-point range (4-of-21, 19 percent) and the turnover disparity proved decisive. Monroe's Naceiar Kirksey led all scorers with 25 points, including the game-winning shot, while Arizona Western's late surge highlighted the team's fight and ability to respond under pressure.

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The Matadors prepare for the start of the ACCAC schedule when they host Central Arizona on Saturday, January 10th.