The Colorado Mesa University men’s and women’s basketball teams had a legendary night on Saturday, January 6, 2024, as they both defeated their rivals from Colorado School of Mines in thrilling games. The CMU Mavericks showed their skills and spirit on the court, as they celebrated their double wins with their fans and coaches.

Women’s Team Overcomes Early Deficit to Win 71-68

The CMU women’s team faced a tough challenge from the Mines Orediggers, who led by as many as 14 points in the first half. However, the Mavericks did not give up, and rallied back in the second half with a strong defensive performance and clutch shooting. The game came down to the wire, as CMU senior guard Sydni Brandon hit a three-pointer with 1.2 seconds left to give her team a 71-68 victory. Brandon finished with a game-high 23 points, while sophomore forward Kelsey Siemons added 16 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double. The Mavericks improved their record to 13-2 overall and 8-0 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), while the Orediggers fell to 11-4 and 6-2.

Men’s Team Edges Out Mines 84-83 in Overtime

The CMU men’s team also had a nail-biter against the Mines Orediggers, who were ranked No. 2 in the nation and undefeated in the RMAC. The Mavericks matched the Orediggers’ intensity and offense, as both teams traded leads and baskets throughout the game. The game went into overtime, as CMU senior guard Ethan Menzies made a layup with 3.8 seconds left in regulation to tie the game at 75-75. In the extra period, the Mavericks took a 84-81 lead with 11 seconds left, thanks to a three-pointer by junior guard Mac Riniker. The Orediggers had a chance to tie the game, but their final shot was blocked by Menzies, who secured the win for his team. Menzies led the Mavericks with 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Riniker had 18 points and six assists. The Mavericks improved their record to 12-3 overall and 7-1 in the RMAC, while the Orediggers suffered their first loss of the season, dropping to 15-1 and 8-1.

CMU Coaches and Players React to Historic Night

The CMU basketball teams made history with their double wins over Mines, as they became the first teams to sweep the Orediggers in the same night since 2016. The CMU coaches and players expressed their pride and joy after the games, as they praised their opponents and thanked their supporters.

Women’s Coach Taylor Wagner

“We knew it was going to be a tough game. Mines is a very good team, and they came out strong in the first half. We had to make some adjustments and play harder in the second half. I’m so proud of our girls for fighting back and never giving up. Sydni Brandon was amazing tonight. She hit some big shots and made some great plays. She’s a leader and a winner. This win means a lot to us, but we know we still have a lot of work to do. We have to stay focused and keep getting better every day.”

Men’s Coach Mike DeGeorge

“What a game. What a night. I’m speechless. Mines is an incredible team, and they played their hearts out. We had to match their energy and execution, and we did. Our guys showed a lot of character and resilience. Ethan Menzies was phenomenal. He made some huge plays on both ends of the floor. He’s a beast. Mac Riniker was also clutch. He hit some big shots and made some smart decisions. He’s a gamer. This win is huge for us, but we can’t get too high or too low. We have to stay humble and hungry. We have to keep working hard and playing together.”

Women’s Guard Sydni Brandon

“It feels amazing. It was a team effort. We all contributed and played hard. We knew we had to come back in the second half and play better defense. We did that, and we made some shots. I was just trying to do whatever I could to help my team win. I’m glad I made that last shot, but it wouldn’t have been possible without my teammates and coaches. They trusted me and gave me confidence. This win is for them, and for our fans. They were awesome tonight. They gave us a lot of energy and support. We appreciate them so much.”

Men’s Guard Ethan Menzies

“It’s unbelievable. It was a battle. Mines is a great team, and they gave us a tough challenge. We had to play hard and smart, and we did. We stuck together and played as a team. We made some big plays and got some big stops. I was just trying to do my job and help my team win. I’m happy I made that layup and that block, but it was a team effort. I couldn’t have done it without my teammates and coaches. They believed in me and helped me grow. This win is for them, and for our fans. They were amazing tonight. They cheered us on and lifted us up. We love them so much.”