Pima Women Narrowly Fall to Cochise in Thrilling Holiday Classic Opener

The Pima Community College women’s basketball team faced a challenging opening match at the Aztec Holiday Classic, held on Saturday at the West Campus Aztec Gymnasium. They competed against Cochise College, a game that proved to be tightly contested.

Ranked No. 13, the Aztecs initially struggled, trailing 28-18 at halftime. However, they quickly regained momentum with a 9-0 surge at the start of the third quarter, narrowing Cochise’s lead to just one point at 28-27. They managed to tie the game at 34 before scoring five consecutive points, marking their largest lead of the contest at 39-34.

The final quarter saw the Aztecs reclaim the lead momentarily, thanks to a basket from sophomore Rori Hoffmeyer, bringing the score to 45-43 with just over four minutes remaining. Unfortunately for the Aztecs, Cochise responded by tying the game and securing a lasting advantage three minutes later. Their ability to convert 6 of 8 free throw attempts in the final moments was pivotal in maintaining their lead, ultimately winning 58-55.

Freshman Kiley Sours-Miller led the Aztecs with a notable performance, scoring 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting and contributing five rebounds, two blocks, and one steal. Hoffmeyer also stood out, adding 13 points and eight rebounds, along with a solid showing at the free-throw line, converting seven of ten attempts. Additionally, freshman Kennedi Niemann chipped in with nine points.

Looking ahead, the Aztecs will continue their participation in the Aztec Holiday Classic on Sunday, facing Central Arizona College at 8 p.m. Central Arizona had a commanding victory earlier in the day, defeating Cuyamaca College by a score of 100-49.