The Southwest Desert Cats remained undefeated at home as they were able to beat the New Mexico Bullsnakes 102-98 on Saturday night at Veterans Gym.
The Bullsnakes started out the game strong as they came out on fire and had a 13 point lead at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter the Desert Cats amped up their defense and started to make some shots and at halftime they were able to tie up the game at 45-45.
In the third quarter, Jeffery Long’s aggressive play gave the Desert Cats a lead that they would never give up. The Desert Cats continued to apply pressure on the Bullsnakes that was making it hard for them to run their offense.
In the fourth quarter the Desert Cats looked like they were going to pull away and win easily, but to New Mexico’s credit they came back and cut the lead to three points with five seconds left to go in the game. Hooper Vint was able to make one of the two free throws to ice the game for the Desert Cats giving them the 102-98 victory.
Five Desert Cats scored in double figures. Derius Hegwood lead the led the team with 22 points. Jeffery Long had 18, Tevin Caldwell also had 18 points, Daniel Hernandez scored 13 and Jesus Mendoza had 12 points.
After the game Desert Cats head coach Jesus Aragon talked about the game.
The Desert Cats next game will be on July 24 when they take on the Las Vegas Huskies.