Skyhawks Basketball Teams Triumph in Season Openers
The Fort Lewis College (FLC) basketball teams kicked off their seasons with impressive victories on March 1, 2024, showcasing strong performances from both the men’s and women’s squads. The men’s team edged out Eastern New Mexico 76-73 in a nail-biting match, while the women’s team convincingly defeated Western New Mexico 83-57.
Men’s Team Battles to Victory
In their season opener, the FLC men’s basketball team faced challenges but managed to secure a thrilling win. Redshirt sophomore guard Jaxon Smith, a notable transfer from Utah State, demonstrated his shooting prowess by scoring a team-high 28 points on 9 of 15 shooting, which included a remarkable 7 of 11 from beyond the arc. Despite losing the battle for rebounds—allowing 21 offensive rebounds and committing 16 turnovers—the Skyhawks turned the tide late in the game to emerge victorious.
Down by seven points with less than eight minutes remaining, FLC’s signature defensive pressure began to make an impact, forcing crucial turnovers that allowed them to regain momentum. Donald Bangham Jr., a junior guard, sealed the win with two free throws in the final seconds after Eastern New Mexico missed a chance to tie at the line.
Head Coach Jordan Mast acknowledged the challenge posed by Eastern New Mexico, stating, “They’re good; we’re happy with that one. We didn’t play our best, but that’s a good team.” He noted that Smith’s early success came as a surprise to the Greyhounds, leading to several open shots.
FLC shot 47% from the field and achieved a remarkable 56% from three-point range. Fifth-year forward Chuol Deng contributed with 12 points and a team-high eight rebounds, while junior guard Yorgio Golesis added 10 points.
Women’s Team Dominates from Start to Finish
The FLC women’s basketball team had a different experience, dominating Western New Mexico from the opening tip-off. The Skyhawks established a commanding lead early, outscoring their opponents by 22 points in the first quarter and maintaining control throughout the game.
FLC showcased impressive teamwork, with ten players contributing between six and ten points. They shot 50% from the field and matched that from three-point range, while also out-rebounding the Mustangs 41-31. Despite committing 20 turnovers, the Skyhawks’ offensive execution remained sharp.
Sophomore guard Claudia Palacio Gámez led the scoring with 10 points on 4 of 5 shooting, including two three-pointers. Freshman guard Savannah Dotray also added 10 points, helping FLC establish a massive lead early on.
The Skyhawks’ bench depth was on full display, as players like Katie Lamb and Malia Ulery contributed significantly to the scoreline. Lamb’s two three-pointers that did not touch the rim highlighted the team’s offensive firepower, while Ulery’s skillful play kept the momentum in FLC’s favor.
Both teams are set for quick follow-up games, with the men facing Western New Mexico on March 2, 2024, and the women taking on Cameron University the same day. The early season results set a positive tone for the Skyhawks as they pursue success in the remainder of the campaign.
