GRAND JUNCTION, COLO. - MSU Denver struggled to find its offensive rhythm on the road, falling 72-44 to Colorado Mesa on Thursday night.
 
The Roadrunners stayed competitive in the first quarter, trailing by just four points at 19-15. However, the Mavericks took control in the second period, outscoring MSU Denver 22-9 to build a commanding halftime lead.
 
Jackie Pippett led the Roadrunners with 13 points on 6-of-10 shooting, while Mariana Silva Pereira added 10 points and three rebounds. Despite their efforts, MSU Denver shot just 37.5% from the field and struggled from beyond the arc, making only three of 10 attempts.
 
Colorado Mesa's Riley Hayes was dominant, scoring a game-high 24 points while knocking down six three-pointers. Olivia Reed contributed 12 points and six rebounds, helping the Mavericks maintain their lead throughout the second half.
 
MSU Denver was held to just 20 points in the second half, as Colorado Mesa's defense stifled the Roadrunners' offensive attack. The Mavericks capitalized on their opportunities, shooting an efficient 47.8% from the field and 90.5% from the free-throw line.
 
The Roadrunners (6-15 overall, 5-8 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) will look to get back into the win column on Saturday, February 8 as they take on the Western Colorado Mountaineers in Gunnison at 1 p.m.