NAPLES, Fla. — Chicago St. (1-6) fell to New Mexico (6-2), 80-53, in a neutral-site match, with New Mexico capitalizing on 19 fast-break points.
The game between Chicago State and New Mexico began with
Keona McGee putting the home team on the board with a jumper at 9:14. New Mexico quickly responded with a layup, taking the lead 3-2. Chicago State managed to tie the game at 9-9 with a jumper from
Elani Randall at 5:35. However, New Mexico hit two three-pointers, including one at the 34-second mark, to extend their lead. By the end of the first quarter, New Mexico led 20-12.
New Mexico continued strong in the second quarter with a strong offensive performance, outscoring Chicago State 24-5. CSU's
Kayla Mount managed to score two late layups, contributing to her season-high total of 15 points. New Mexico's defense forced several turnovers.
Chloe Sisco's three-pointer at 9:01 marked the beginning of a balanced quarter for CSU. Despite committing 11 turnovers, the Cougars managed to outscore New Mexico 17-12 in the period.
Marisa Gant contributed with a jumper at 2:59, while
Kayla Mount added two free throws at 5:09. On the defensive end,
Elani Randall blocked a critical shot at 6:40, helping CSU maintain momentum.
New Mexico maintained control in the final quarter with a series of key plays, starting with Nayli Padilla's three-pointer at 9:54, extending their lead to 59-34.. Chicago State's efforts included a layup from
Natalia Williams at 6:21 and a late layup by
Kayla Mount at 0:13, but they couldn't close the gap.
Kayla Mount's performance stood out, as her 15 points marked her season high. New Mexico's defense was strong, forcing six turnovers and securing five steals to contribute to their 80-53 victory.
Chicago was led by
Kayla Mount with 15 points, while
Keona McGee finished with nine points.
Chicago State will play Pittsburgh in their second game at the Florida Gulf Classic Challenge on Saturday, Nov. 29. The matchup is set to tip-off at 10 a.m. CT.
