Mesa State men (20-2, 14-1) dropped its first conference game at Western New Mexico Saturday night in Silver City.

 The Mustangs (9-13, 8-7) held a 43-27 halftime lead and held off the Mavericks rally in the second half for the win. MSC went on an 18-6 run to pull to within four points (72-76) on a Michael Bear jumper with 52 seconds remaining in regulation. WNMU closed out the game sinking two free throws and ended the game on a dunk with one second left.  The Mavericks closed the gap to four points several times in the second half but never held a lead in the game.

 Mike Dominguez led the Mavericks with 19 points, scoring 15 in the second half.  Michael Bear finished with 14 points and six rebounds. Brian Kenshalo was 6 for 12 from the 3-point line for 18 points. Justin Ashbaugh grabbed 12 rebounds and recorded five points and two blocked shots.

 WNMU's TJ Riley led all players with 33 points and 12 boards.

 MSC will travel to Adams State and Fort Lewis next weekend for the final regular season road trip.  Tip-off Friday night at Adams State is set for 8 p.m.

 Listen to all the Maverick games on KEXO 1340 AM and via the internet at www.mesamavs.com.