Gonzales Shines with Double-Double as Ball’s 15 Points Propel Aztecs to 26-0 Record

The Pima Community College men’s basketball team has secured the top seed for the Region I, Division II Tournament, following a decisive victory over Chandler-Gilbert Community College on Wednesday. With a record of 26-0 overall and 14-0 in the ACCAC, the Aztecs showcased their dominance in a 73-49 win.

This latest triumph marks the Aztecs’ 26th consecutive victory, reinforcing their status as the No. 2 ranked team. Their previous encounters with the Coyotes were also convincing, with scores of 78-56 and 95-55 in earlier matchups.

Entering the game, both teams were the top contenders in the ACCAC Division II standings. However, the Aztecs are firmly ahead, maintaining a six-game lead with four regular season games still to play.

The momentum shifted dramatically during the first half when the score was tied at 17-17. Pima surged ahead with an 18-6 run, led by sophomore Cohenj Gonzales, who contributed the first five points in that stretch. Wes Ball also played a pivotal role, scoring six consecutive points. By halftime, the Aztecs had established a 35-23 lead.

Chandler-Gilbert attempted a comeback, narrowing the gap to 51-40 midway through the second half. However, Gonzales quickly squashed their momentum with a three-pointer, followed by three-point plays from Max Majerle and Ball, expanding the lead to 64-41.

Gonzales delivered an impressive performance, finishing with 19 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a block. His shooting was efficient; he hit 7 of 13 field goals and made 4 of 8 from beyond the arc. Ball contributed significantly as well, scoring 15 points on 6-for-8 shooting and grabbing five rebounds.

Sophomore Gabe Oldham narrowly missed a double-double with nine points and ten rebounds, while freshman Mason Hunt added nine points and seven rebounds off the bench.

The Aztecs will return to action this Saturday at the West Campus Aztec Gymnasium, where they will take on South Mountain Community College. The game is scheduled to tip off at 4 p.m.