Twin Falls, Idaho - Monroe University earned its sixth win of the season on Saturday evening, pulling away late to defeat Cochise College 77-65 behind a dominant fourth-quarter surge and a standout night from Hellary De Los Santos.
The Mustangs controlled the opening half, shooting nearly 59 percent in the second quarter to build a 43-35 halftime advantage. De Los Santos set the tone early and never slowed, finishing with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and three steals, anchoring Monroe on both ends of the floor. Sydney Huskey added 12 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals, consistently generating momentum through pressure defense and transition play.
Monroe's bench was a major difference-maker, outscoring Cochise's bench 34-6. Sophomore Fabiana Poindujour delivered 10 points and five assists, while Eniyah Stinnette contributed 7 points and 11 rebounds in just 20 minutes. Sharpshooter Adela Cecunjanin added 7 points, including a key second-quarter three that fueled a 14-3 run.
Cochise leaned heavily on guard Cecy Burruel, who scored 20 points, while Hannah Dibadjou posted a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Apaches shot just 32.8 percent from the field and struggled from the perimeter, going 4-for-22 from three.
After Cochise trimmed the margin to 55-56 early in the fourth, Monroe responded with its best stretch of the game. De Los Santos powered inside for multiple key finishes, Huskey added a driving layup, and Skylah Kemp buried a timely wing three to stretch the lead back to double digits. Monroe outscored Cochise 21-12 in the final quarter and held the Apaches to 16.7 percent shooting in the frame.
The Mustangs shot 41.9 percent for the game and held a 49-47 rebounding edge, including 18 offensive boards that extended possessions down the stretch.
Coach Mike Seney's squad will take a week off before hosting Union College at the MAC. Tip-off is scheduled for 5 PM on December 4th.
ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 26 teams competing across nine sports. There are 19 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as the Monroe University marching band, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level.
For more information about the Monroe Mustangs, please visit us at www.MonroeUMustangs.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Mustangs Athletics), Twitter (@MonroeMustangs) and Instagram (@monroemustangs).
