GUNNISON, Colo. – Saturday against Colorado Mesa University, the Western Colorado University Women's Basketball team displayed signs of greatness. Despite a gritty performance, the Mountaineers were unable to tackle the Mavericks, falling 41-53.
 
This RMAC rivalry game started with a bang from CMU (4-1, 1-0 RMAC). The Mavericks took a 10-0 lead over Western (2-1, 0-1 RMAC) after the first 2:48.
 
The tables turned as the Mountaineers ended the first quarter on a 17-2 run, fueled by Jessie Erickson's six points. Western held a 17-12 lead going into the second quarter.
 
Erickson led the Mountaineers in scoring against the Mavericks with eight points.
 
CMU chipped away at the Western lead, but the Mountaineers took a one-point, 24-23 lead at the break.
 
Western's defense played superb in the first 20 minutes, holding CMU to just 23.08 percent shooting from the field.
 
Point guard Tammarrah Gothard continued her outstanding season, scoring seven points, grabbing a team-high seven rebounds, dishing-out two assists, and recording three steals.
 
The Mountaineers were unable to hold the lead in the second half as CMU outscored Western 30-17 down the stretch.
 
Western won't have to wait long to avenge the loss. The Mountaineers host RMAC opponent, Colorado School of Mines on Friday, Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m. in Paul Wright Gym.