Gameday Preview: Lady Matadors win streak on the line in a battle of dueling backcourts
YUMA, Ariz. - The Arizona Western women's basketball team (8-7, 1-0) put their three game win streak on the line this evening as the Lady Matadors travel to Cochise College (5-12,1-1) in ACCAC play. Arizona Western also sports a three game win streak over the Apaches, the last time Cochise College defeated Arizona Western was in the 2024 Region I Semi-Final, 61-60 in Douglas.
About the Lady Matadors
Arizona Western arrives with momentum, winning three straight and four of its last five, including a gritty 58-56 conference victory that showcased late-game toughness. Guards Mable Doumbia (13.0 PPG) and Chen Pan (12.9 PPG) power a balanced attack, and the Matadors have displayed strong recent defense, holding their last three opponents to 56, 34, and 50 points. With four players averaging over 8.5 points per game, AWC's depth provides multiple scoring options and stability in tight contests.
About the Apaches
Cochise College enters at 5-12, having gone 2-3 over its last five. The Apaches showcased their ceiling with a dominant 77-37 win over the College of Southern Nevada on January 8th, followed by a tough 46-47 loss to the Coyotes on January 9th, highlighting week-to-week variability. Guard Cecy Burruel leads the Apaches in scoring with 13.8 PPG, Gaby Oliver adds 11.1 PPG to form a potent backcourt. Defensively, Cochise has been inconsistent, allowing 93 and 73 points in two of its recent losses, a contrast to AWC's current form.
Players to Watch
• Arizona Western — #22 Mable Doumbia (G), 13.0 PPG: Reliable scorer and primary focus for opposing defenses. • Arizona Western — #1 Chen Pan (G), 12.9 PPG: Complements Doumbia to give AWC a dynamic one-two backcourt punch. • Cochise — #12 Cecy Burruel (G), 13.8 PPG: Team's top scorer and offensive catalyst. • Cochise — #13 Gaby Oliver (G), 11.1 PPG: Key secondary option who can alleviate pressure on Burruel.
Statistical Comparison and Advantages
• Offensive Depth: Arizona Western features four players averaging over 8.5 PPG, offering more balanced scoring than Cochise's top-heavy approach. • Defensive Form: AWC's recent defensive performances (allowing 56, 34, 50) outpace Cochise, which has conceded 93 and 73 in two of its recent losses.
How to Watch
• Tip off is scheduled for 5:30pm and you can watch the livestream here.
You can also visit www.awcmatadors.com and click the video button on the schedule