FORT WORTH, TX – Texas Wesleyan extended its win total to six games with a 74-57 victory over Nelson (Texas) at the Sid Richardson Center on Monday.
The Rams (6-1, 3-1 SAC) came out strong in the first quarter despite a slow start that saw them trail 19-9. Savanna Smith sparked the offense, hitting three of her five field goals in the period, including a three-pointer off an assist from Giani Wimbish-Gay. Texas Wesleyan showed resilience on defense, with Payton Foster and Iasia Goldman pulling down key rebounds, while Imani Mitchell was active on both ends.
However, turnovers from both teams kept the game tight early on.
Texas Wesleyan found its rhythm in the second quarter, outscoring Nelson (2-7, 1-5 SAC) 25-14. The Rams' offensive efficiency was boosted by sharp shooting from Iasia Goldman and crucial assists from Mitchell and Tayran Wills. Kameryn Phillips and Aniyah Sanford contributed points to stretch the lead, while the defense took advantage of turnovers, including a steal by Foster. The Rams entered halftime with a commanding 44-23 lead.
Nelson mounted a brief rally in the third quarter, with Wendy Clemmons and Paris Miller scoring consistently to keep the game within reach. However, Texas Wesleyan continued to dominate, outscoring Nelson 18-12. Mitchell's inside play and Sophia Hurtado's free-throw shooting kept the Rams in control as they pushed their lead to 62-35.
In the fourth quarter, Texas Wesleyan sealed the win with a strong finish. Clemmons knocked down two crucial three-pointers, while Phillips added key layups and defensive rebounds. Mitchell provided clutch steals and assists to help maintain the Rams' momentum. Nelson made a late push with Miller's jump shots and rebounds, but the Rams' depth and defensive intensity proved too much. Texas Wesleyan finished the game with a 74-57 victory.
Smith led the Rams with 16 points, while Phillips and Mitchell each contributed 10. Clemmons finished with 18 points for Nelson.
The Rams will return to action on Saturday in the Sid at 11 a.m. against Wiley College.
