Western New Mexico Outpaces NM Highlands

Las Vegas, NM - NM Highlands struggled to establish offensive consistency, largely due to limited off-ball movement, insufficient use of screens, and a lack of decisive cuts to the basket. Their difficulty reading and executing off screens led to disrupted possessions, while turnovers and unnecessary fouls further hindered their ability to stay competitive. Defensively, Highlands could not consistently withstand Western New Mexico’s physicality, pace, or interior pressure as Western New Mexico ran off with a 76-58 win.

For Highlands, Nick Williams, a 6'8" forward possesses standout athleticism, speed, and physical tools, but this matchup exposed areas needing refinement. Despite frequent touches inside, he struggled to finish through contact, often coming up just short in strength or lift at the rim. Developing a more assertive power finish, facing up before making a move, and improving balance through contact will elevate his interior scoring efficiency. Williams also must reduce foul trouble to stay impactful throughout the game. With adjustments to timing, strength, and decision-making, he has the potential to become a dominant inside presence.

Dontae Walker, a 6'6" senior guard provided an immediate spark off the bench, leading Highlands with 18 points. Though he shot 5-for-13 from the field and missed both three-point attempts, he remained aggressive, converting 8-of-9 free throws and consistently attacking the lane. His physical drives either resulted in made baskets or drawn fouls, and he positioned himself well for rebounds and cuts. Offensively, Walker was the clear standout for Highlands. Defensively, increased activity and playmaking, particularly in generating steals, would round out his impact.

Johannes Kirsipuu, a 6'2" guard entered in the second half with energy and urgency, finishing with 7 points on limited attempts, including a made three and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. His pace and assertiveness were positive additions, though Highlands needed more sustained offensive threats overall.

Western New Mexico entered the matchup with purpose, physicality, and teamwork. Their collective effort on both ends set the tone early, and strong communication fueled their defensive pressure and transition opportunities. Offensively, Western moved the ball with speed and precision, executing sharp cuts, timely drives, and accurate passes that routinely put Highlands on their heels.

Andre Harris (6'8''-F) forward led Western with 18 points and controlled the interior on both ends. His strength and leverage in the paint limited Williams’ ability to finish and disrupted Highlands’ overall inside scoring. Harris shot 5-for-11 from the field and an efficient 8-for-10 from the free-throw line, while also collecting 8 rebounds and 2 assists. Reducing fouls and turnovers would elevate his overall reliability, but he was unquestionably the dominant force in the matchup.

Carson Kelly, a 5'10" guard contributed 15 points, shooting 4-for-7 from the field and 7-for-9 at the line. He also added three rebounds (one offensive, two defensive). Kelly’s court vision, speed, and ability to position himself effectively were key to Western’s offensive flow. Defensively, he made timely plays, including several valuable steals that shifted momentum.

Cortavius Seales added 10 points on 4-for-8 shooting, including 2-for-5 from beyond the arc, and pulled down three rebounds. His defensive activity was notable, recording four steals. Continued focus on reducing fouls and turnovers will help maximize his two-way impact.

Western New Mexico’s combination of discipline, physicality, and cohesive execution propelled them to the win. Highlands showed flashes of individual talent, particularly through Walker and Williams, but their lack of offensive structure and defensive consistency left them unable to match Western’s sustained pressure and teamwork.

This article was written by Rebecca Lucero, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball.