FORT WORTH, TX - Texas Wesleyan University (1-0) started its 2024-25 season with a hard-fought 87-80 win over Dallas Christian College (0-1) Thursday in the Sid Richardson Center.

Trey Sinegal powered the Rams with 25 points, connecting on 6-of-9 shots from beyond the arc while adding two assists and two steals. Montez Young Jr. added 16 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, while Richard Amaefule recorded a double-double with 14 points and ten rebounds.

The Rams controlled the first half, shooting 51.4% from the field, including 53.3% from 3-point range, to take a 48-40 lead into the break. Despite a strong second-half effort from Dallas Christian, Texas Wesleyan maintained its advantage, relying on their efficient 51.6% shooting for the game and dominance inside with 38 points in the paint.

Ny'gel Boozer led the Crusaders with 22 points on 8-of-13 shooting, including four 3-pointers, while Grayson Bell added 18 points, making all six of his 3-point attempts. However, Dallas Christian struggled to cut into the lead as Texas Wesleyan forced 15 turnovers and converted them into 20 points.

Key contributions from the Rams' bench also helped seal the victory, as Vegas Evans chipped in 12 points, and Anthony Sierras scored six points in limited minutes. Texas Wesleyan's largest lead came at 20 points with 10:18 left in the second half, but Dallas Christian made a late push with 29 bench points, narrowing the deficit.

The Rams outrebounded the Crusaders 33-29 and held their opponents to just 43.9% shooting from the floor.

The Rams will return to action at 6 p.m. Monday in the Sud Richardson Center against Arlington Baptist.