The Rustler Men's Basketball team completed the first semester of games going 2-1 on the week. It started on Wednesday in front of the home crowd in Rustler Gym, with a blowout win against Colorado Northwestern, 94-72. "We have only had three home games all first semester; saying our guys are road warriors would be an understatement. Putting on a show for the fans who attended felt great for the guys," commented Coach Schmit on his team's home performance against CNCC. 4 starters scored in double figures along with all 10 players scoring at least one basket. 

 

To finish the semester, CWC traveled to NJC in Sterling, CO to take on two Region 9 south opponents, North Platte and McCook. North Platte, a traditional power in the south, was going to be a tough opponent for the Rustlers. The first half was controlled by CWC taking a 44-36 lead into halftime. Unfortunately, the second half saw countless missed lay-ups and lazy defense by the Rustlers. With under 2:00 to go, North Platte took the lead and never gave it up; taking the game, 90-82. Coach Schmit was not pleased with his team's effort and execution, stating "This was the first game all year I felt we lost. Our previous games the teams beat us. This game we beat ourselves. Hoping this is the first and last time we have this feeling." 

 

Coming back after the tough loss to North Platte, the Rustlers faced off with McCook. A talented team with multiple DI commitments did not stand a chance against an angry CWC squad. With the halftime score showing CWC in the lead 44-35, almost the same as the previous day, what would happen over the next 20 minutes would be dominated by the Rustlers. Coming out after halftime, CWC went on a 23-1 run taking a commanding 67-36 lead. The final result of the game, CWC 82 and McCook 64. 

"I challenged the guys at halftime to play our brand of basketball. Coming out in the second half they did that and completely controlled the game on both ends of the floor. I am incredibly proud of how we have bounced back from losses all season, "said Coach Schmit. 

 

The Rustlers return to action on Thursday, January 5 against Miles Community College.