The Aztecs had an intense match against Colorado State, but ultimately came out on top. Not only were they fighting for the win, but they were also fighting for the survivors of breast cancer.

Before tipoff, both opponents and fans in the arena had the chance to honor someone they know who is fighting breast cancer by holding a poster reading “I play for ____.” The Aztecs and their fans were showing their pink pride with their clothing and accessories.

Once that first whistle blew, the game was a nonstop showdown. The energy (and score) was back-and-forth, keeping the arena on its feet throughout the game. The Rams’ offense did not give up, strengthening the Aztecs’ defense.

Junior Maria Konsatntindou had a stellar performance against the Rams, leading the defense with seven rebounds and two blocks, and adding a fourth-quarter pull-up jumper.

“She won the big dawg award today. Maria came in and did a great job of helping us stop those drives when they came. We contained the dribble as best we could to give us a chance to win, and Maria was a big part of that,” head coach Stacie Terry-Hutson commented after the game.

The arena was loud and proud. Not only were the women’s basketball team showing their pride with pink gear, but the SDSU cheer team also showed their pride during their performance with bright pink pom-poms and bows.

Throughout the timeouts, the night’s significance was continually honored. Many clips and photos of women who are fighting this disease were shown and recognized, reminding fans and anyone in the arena of the cause and the importance of awareness and solidarity.

“Our focus for today’s game was strength, and we wanted the people watching to see the strength, and we were playing for something bigger than ourselves, which is what we showcased tonight,” Terry-Hutson commented.

SDSU not only secured a stellar win that gives them a two-game lead for first place in the Mountain West Conference, but also celebrated and united in support of breast cancer awareness.