Gonzales and Majerle Ignite Aztecs with 14 Threes, Toppling No. 4 Salt Lake

The Pima Community College men’s basketball team solidified its dominance in the Aztec Holiday Classic, ending the tournament with a perfect 3-0 record. On Monday, they triumphed over the fourth-ranked Salt Lake Community College, securing a 92-75 victory at the West Campus Aztec Gymnasium.

Ranked sixth in Division II, the Aztecs showcased their strength with a decisive second-half performance. Leading by just one point at 49-48, they unleashed a 22-3 scoring spree. This surge propelled them to a 20-point lead, peaking at 87-62 in the closing minutes.

Initially, Pima found itself trailing by three points at 20-17 in the first half. However, an 8-2 run allowed them to regain control, concluding the first half with a 40-37 advantage.

Sophomore Cohenj Gonzales emerged as a standout, netting 31 points. His shooting was particularly impressive, hitting 10 of 20 attempts from the field and nailing 9 of 15 from beyond the arc. In the second half alone, he converted six three-pointers, contributing to his game-high tally alongside four rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. Gonzales has averaged 27 points over the past three games.

Also instrumental in the victory, Max Majerle added 24 points, shooting 7 for 13 overall and 5 for 8 from three-point territory. He was efficient from the free-throw line as well, going 5 for 5, and contributed six assists, four rebounds, and two steals.

Gabe Oldham rounded out the standout performances with a double-double, scoring 11 points and securing 11 rebounds, while Wes Ball matched his scoring total and contributed eight rebounds and two blocks. Fellow freshman Brigg Wolfe brought valuable support off the bench with seven points, six rebounds, and two assists.

The Aztecs shot 48 percent for the game, including an impressive 48 percent from three-point range. They will return to action on Saturday at 4 p.m. against PHH Prep at the West Campus Aztec Gymnasium.