CHICKASHA, OK — The Rams dropped a hard-fought contest to the University of Science & Arts Drovers, 76-71, on Saturday afternoon at Drover Fieldhouse.

Their efforts were stymied by Science & Arts' timely scoring and sharp perimeter shooting despite a second-half rally.

The Rams struck first with a three-pointer from Trey Sinegal in the opening minute, but defensive lapses allowed the Drovers to gain momentum.

Science & Arts' Lendy Holmes was particularly effective, scoring a team-high 21 points, including five three-pointers.

Trailing 39-32 at halftime, the Rams looked to adjust, and their efforts paid off early in the second half.

Led by Sinegal, who finished with 15 points, and Montez Young Jr., who tallied a game-high 17 points and nine rebounds, Texas Wesleyan chipped away at a 12-point deficit.

A key sequence midway through the half featured a fastbreak three-pointer from Sinegal and a layup by Richard Amaefule, cutting the lead to two points.

Amaefule contributed 14 points and nine rebounds in the effort.

The Rams' defense tightened as the clock wound down, and a layup by Young Jr. at the 2:01 mark brought the Rams within one point, 70-69.

However, Science & Arts responded with a pivotal three-pointer from Mohand Ammad and converted crucial free throws to seal the victory.

Texas Wesleyan shot 43.8% from the field, including 30% from beyond the arc, while Science & Arts edged them with 45.8% shooting and a sharp 47.8% from three-point range.

The Rams out-rebounded the Drovers 43-31 but were undone by 14 turnovers, leading to 15 points for the opposition.

The Rams return to the Sid Richardson Center at 7:45 p.m. on Tuesday to host Nelson University.