PHOENIX, Ariz. - Northern New Mexico opened Cal Pac Conference play with a 75-66 victory over Westcliff (CA) Wednesday night at Nelson University. The Eagles improved to 4-8 overall and 1-0 in conference play with the road win.
 
TJ Sanchez led Northern New Mexico with 16 points and a team-high six rebounds. Jesus Mendoza contributed 13 points, while Ja'Kwon Hill added 12 points and Harkirath Makhar chipped in 10 points to give the Eagles four players in double figures.
 
The balanced scoring attack proved crucial for Northern New Mexico, which shot 63.0 percent from the field in the second half.
 
Northern New Mexico controlled the boards and limited turnovers in the victory. The Eagles' defensive effort helped them maintain their lead against a Westcliff team that kept the game competitive throughout the second half.
 
The conference-opening win gives Northern New Mexico momentum as they continue Cal Pac Conference play on Saturday against Stanton University at 2:30 p.m. local time.