CHADRON – Nationally-ranked Colorado Mesa University defeated Chadron State College 79-65 in a Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference game Friday evening in Chadron.
 
The Eagles (0-5, 0-1 RMAC) led for much of the first half and distributed the ball effectively as 11 players found the scoring column. CSC shot 55 percent from the field in the first half, but surrendered its lead late to the Mavericks and trailed 35-34.
 
After the break, Mesa extended its lead, shooting 31 percent from beyond the arc and 54 percent from the field. The Eagles held tight through strong free throw shooting – 11 of 13 – in the second half, but could not overcome the Mavericks.
 
The Eagles had a strong performance from their bench, accounting for over half of the total points.
 
CMU's point guard, Erin Reichle, led all scorers with 31 points, shooting 66 percent from the field, 50 percent from 3-point, and hit seven of eight from the line. She also had a game-high four assists. Siu Lo'amanu and Leanndra Gilbert both tallied 16, while Gilbert added six boards.
 
The Eagles were led by Emma Block and Kayla Mathews, both of whom scored 10. Block sank two treys and led the team with six rebounds.
 
Also for CSC, Havannah Newens chipped in eight points and four rebounds.
 
The Eagles host Western State Colorado University Saturday at 5:30 pm.