A second-consecutive underwhelming offensive performance clipped the Skyhawks’ wings.
The Fort Lewis College women’s basketball team shot just 33.3 percent from the field in Friday’s 74-63 loss to New Mexico Highlands in Las Vegas, N.M.
The loss came on the heels of Saturday’s home setback to Black Hills State, one in which FLC (7-5, 4-4 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) shot just 28.1 percent in the second half.
Shooting from 3-point range deserted the Skyhawks on Friday, as well. FLC made just 2-of-8 attempts from 3 against 7-of-21 for the Cowgirls (6-6, 3-6 RMAC).
“It’s really just a toughness test,” FLC head coach Jason Flores said. “Our players, we have to understand what makes us good and what makes us bad. Until we figure that out and get to what makes us good more often, results like this are going to happen.”
The Skyhawks jumped out to an early 18-6 edge only for Highlands to find its footing to grab a slim 35-34 halftime advantage. The Cowgirls were able to gain distance early in the second half, and the Skyhawks’ offense was unable to close the gap.
“When we started the game, we started well, kind of doing the things that we know when we do them, we’re going to be successful,” Flores said. “Posts were getting good touches; guards were attacking smartly. ... And then for whatever reason, we get into (thinking) we have a lead, and we started thinking we needed to force quick shots.”
Christie Groh led the way with 21 points for FLC, while Erika Richards added 16 points and Mary Brinton 10.
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