Cowboys Dominate Western State

The University of Wyoming Cowboy basketball team (5-6) cruised to an 80-37 win over the Western State Mountaineers (1-8) on Friday in Laramie on a strong night for Francisco "Paco" Cruz.

The Cowboys began the game with a 10-0 run, forcing a turnover in Western States first 6 possessions, and never looked back. The Pokes would have several scoring runs including a 13-point streak in the second half which had 11 points come from the bench.

After attempting only 4-3's in their last game against Denver, Wyoming shot away against Western State and ended up 9-29 from beyond the arc.

Cruz had 16 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds and 3 steals, all of which are career highs for the junior transfer.  Head Coach Heath Schroyer said Cruz was looking like the player he recruited and doing what he was brought to UW to do.

"He's a kid that can stretch defenses and plays within himself and I thought tonight was probably the first night that he really played within himself and he did things he can do well, stayed away from doing things that he doesn't do very well."  -Head Coach Heath Schroyer on Cruz against Western State

Cruz was 6 of 7 shooting, including 4 of 5 beyond the arc in 29 minutes.

Three other Cowboys scored in double figures. Djibrial Thiam had 17 points, Amath M'Baye had 15 and Desmar Jackson 12.  Jackson now has 502 points in his career and this was the eighth straight game he has scored in double figures.

Adam Waddell did not dress tonight.  Afam Muojeke dressed but did not play.  Both are rehabbing injuries and Coach Schroyer has said he hopes to use this homestand as a chance for both of them to get healthier.

The Cowboys will play their third of five consecutive home games Monday night when they host Centenary.  Tip-off will be at 7:00 p.m., coverage will be begin on Y95 at 6:30 p.m.