Yuma, AZ - The Monroe Mustangs stayed unbeaten in Arizona with an 85-82 win over Cochise College on Thursday afternoon, improving to 10-4 on the season. The Mustangs controlled much of the game but were tested down the stretch before closing it out at the free-throw line.

Monroe set the tone early with balanced offense and steady defensive pressure, taking a 39-32 lead into halftime. Naceiar Kirksey was aggressive from the opening tip, attacking the basket and setting up teammates while pacing the Mustangs offensively. Qingfang Pang provided an early spark with efficient scoring, knocking down shots from the perimeter to help Monroe establish separation.

The Mustangs continued to find production across the lineup as Faquir Mosley delivered a strong performance off the bench, creating offense and applying pressure defensively. Teron Murray added consistent scoring and energy, while Riley Dunn and Fernando De Los Santos contributed key minutes that helped Monroe maintain control through stretches of the game.

Cochise mounted a strong second-half push, cutting into the deficit and turning the final minutes into a one-possession game. During the closing stretch, Monroe leaned on its experience and depth. Kirksey remained composed at the line, while Mosley and Tavien Tyler made timely plays to keep the Mustangs in front. Abraham Rosario and Nick Williams also contributed valuable minutes as Monroe weathered the late surge.

Kirksey finished with 22 points to lead all scorers, while Mosley added 16 points off the bench. Pang chipped in 13 points, and De Los Santos and Tyler each provided key contributions on both ends. Monroe's bench depth and ability to force turnovers proved to be the difference, allowing the Mustangs to execute late and secure the hard-fought victory.

Monroe will close out it's road trip tomorrow as they take on host Arizona Western College. Tip off is scheduled for 11:45 ET. 
 

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).

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