#10 Copper Mountain Falls in Hard-Fought Road Battle at #14 Mt. San Jacinto

 In a matchup worthy of the conference's top two teams, the #10-ranked Copper Mountain College Women's Basketball team came up just short in an intense 81–72 road loss to #14 Mt. San Jacinto College on Wednesday night. The game featured constant momentum swings as both teams battled for positioning atop the Inland Empire Athletic Conference standings.

From the opening tip, it was clear neither team would back down. The first quarter saw both sides trading baskets in a physical, fast-paced contest. Zoe Tennell led the charge for the Fighting Cacti, repeatedly attacking the paint, while the Eagles countered with timely three-point shooting. MSJC held a slim 20–17 advantage at the end of the opening period.

That back-and-forth rhythm continued throughout the first half, with Copper Mountain staying within striking distance and heading into the locker room trailing by just four points. Coming out of halftime, the Cacti raised the intensity and closed the gap quickly, tying the game at 40 early in the third quarter.

Despite the surge, Copper Mountain was unable to gain separation. MSJC responded with another strong stretch, and while the Cacti continued to battle, the Eagles outscored Copper Mountain 42–38 over the second half to secure the 81–72 victory.

Tennell delivered a standout performance, leading all scorers with 33 points and keeping Copper Mountain within reach until the final moments.

The Fighting Cacti will look to bounce back and defend home court this Saturday when they host San Bernardino Valley College at the Bell Center. Tip-off is set for 1:00 p.m.