CMU Mavericks Knock Off 2nd Ranked and Unbeaten UC-Colorado Springs

The Colorado Mesa University men's basketball team scored a huge victory Saturday night when they knocked off 2nd ranked and previously unbeaten UC- Colorado Springs 100-92.The Mavericks took 9th ranked Colorado Mines to the buzzer last weekend losing by 3 after missing a three-pointer at the buzzer that would have tied the score. For the second consecutive week, the Mavericks took on an undefeated team ranked in the top 10 in Division II basketball. The Mountain Lions were 14-0 on the season, and ranked 2nd in the nation, averaging 90 points per game, while the Mavs came in at just a 75 points per game clip.

The Mavericks opened up a 14 point first half lead, but the Mountain Lions rallied to take a one point lead into half time on the final shot of the half. The Mavs recaptured the lead 3 1/2 minutes into the second half and never trailed again.

They key to victory was simply great shooting by CMU. They shot 58% from the field for the game, including over 61% in the second half. Remarkably, the Mavericks shot 63% from three-point range hitting on 17 out of 27.

Ryan Stephan, poured in 40 points, including 5 for 5 from three point range, and hauled down 15 rebounds. Julian Vasquez added 24 points, with 21 coming in the second half, including 8-9 from the free throw line.

Colorado Mesa Head Coach Andy Shantz was understandably extremely proud of the effort.

The Mavs improve to 12-4 on the season, 7-3 in conference play,  and will return home for the next three games, with Western State this weekend, and Metro State and Regis the following weekend at Brownson Arena.