GUNNISON, COLO. – The Colorado Mesa University men's basketball team overcame a slow start to defeat Cameron University 81-73 in Gunnison, Colo., Friday (Nov. 20).

The Mavericks shot 32-percent (9-28) over the first 20 minutes to trail 43-34 at halftime.

CMU's shooting improved in the second half to the tune of 50-percent (14-28). The Mavs would take the lead midway through the second half thanks to an 11-2 run. CMU's lead would grow to as many as 11 points late in the second, and Mesa would make 5-8 free throws late to earn the win.

CMU shot 26-of-34 from the line, including 12-of-14 from Ryan Stephan, who led all scorers with 29 points. He tallied the lone double-double of the game with 12 rebounds.

The Mavs had two other players in double figures. Connor Nichols drained a team-high three 3-pointers to finish with 14 points, and Eimer Lopez chipped in 10.

Cameron struggled at the line shooting 56-percent (9-16).

JV Long led three CU players in double figures with 14 points.

CMU (2-1) will face Eastern New Mexico Saturday (Nov. 21).