FORT WORTH, TX - As the Texas Wesleyan University Rams men's basketball team prepares for the 2024-25 season, there's a renewed sense of energy under first-year head coach Brian Wanamaker.
With a challenging slate ahead, the Rams aim to build on past success and make a mark in the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) and beyond.
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Opening Games: The new season tips off with a home opener against Dallas Christian College on October 24, followed by the Faculty & Staff Appreciation Game against Arlington Baptist University on October 28, where these early non-conference games will allow the Rams to establish momentum under Coach Wanamaker's leadership.
- Oklahoma Wesleyan Showdown: One of the more anticipated non-conference matchups is on November 5 when the Rams host Oklahoma Wesleyan University, a perennial NAIA contender. This game will be a test as the Rams measure up against one of the nation's top programs early in the season.
- Road Challenges: A critical stretch in November and December features several away games, including matchups against Texas A&M-Texarkana (Nov. 9) and Stephen F. Austin (Dec. 20). Playing on the road against these competitive teams will provide valuable experience and resilience for the Rams heading into SAC play.
- Conference Play Begins: SAC action kicks off with a game at Southwestern Christian University on November 16. This matchup will set the tone for the Rams as they navigate a tough conference, with other significant games against Wayland Baptist (Dec. 12) and Oklahoma Panhandle State (Dec. 14) before the winter break.
- Critical Home Stretch: The Rams' January and February schedule features several key home games, including matchups against Langston University (Jan. 9), Southwestern Christian (Jan. 18), and John Brown University (Feb. 6). These contests will be pivotal in determining SAC standings, especially as the Rams host Senior Night on February 13 against Oklahoma City University.
- Senior Night and Beyond: The Rams will honor their senior players on February 13 when they face Oklahoma City University. This emotional game will likely have SAC tournament implications as the Rams look to secure a top spot in the conference heading into postseason play.
The Rams roster for the 2024-25 season is loaded with size, experience, and versatility.
Senior leadership comes from players like
Khalil Turner (6'8" G/F) and Kristopher O'Neal II (6'1" G), while local talents such as
Kaden Morgan (6'3" G from Fort Worth) add a homegrown element.
The team boasts strong frontcourt options, including 6'9" forward
Richard Amaefule from London and 6'10" center
Hamilton Wallace Gonclaves de Souza from Brazil.
Looking Ahead:
With a balanced schedule of non-conference tests and critical SAC matchups, Texas Wesleyan will have ample opportunities to make a deep postseason run. Coach Wanamaker's leadership, combined with a talented roster, sets the stage for what could be a promising season for the Rams.
