FORT WORTH, TX — The Texas Wesleyan basketball team dropped a hard-fought matchup against Wayland Baptist, 63-52, on Thursday at the Sid Richardson Center.

Despite a strong start, the Rams could not maintain momentum as the Pioneers capitalized on key opportunities to secure the win.

The Rams (7-4, 3-4 SAC) came out strong in the first quarter, fueled by Taryn Wills and Savanna Smith, who combined for 14 points. Texas Wesleyan shot an impressive 64% from the field, leading 21-20 at the end of the frame. Wayland Baptist (10-1, 7-1 SAC) responded in the second quarter behind Megan Nestor's dominant presence in the paint. Nestor, who finished with a game-high 23 points and 16 rebounds, consistently kept the Pioneers within striking distance.

In the second quarter, Savanna Smith's three-pointer briefly gave the Rams a 24-20 lead, but Wayland's Linda Brice tied the game with a pair of jumpers. The Pioneers surged ahead, finishing the half with a narrow 37-34 advantage.

The third quarter saw both teams struggle offensively, but the Rams clawed back with crucial baskets from Kamryn Gibson and Wills. A timely three-pointer from Payton Foster tied the game at 43, but Wayland's defense held strong, forcing turnovers to regain the lead heading into the final period.

The Rams' offense faltered in the fourth quarter, shooting just 8% from the field. Wayland capitalized on second-chance opportunities and turnovers, with Kaitlyn Jerden and Nestor combining for 15 points in the period. Despite a late three-pointer from Smith and strong efforts by Gibson, Texas Wesleyan couldn't close the gap.

Texas Wesleyan shot 30.5% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range. Smith and Gibson led the Rams with 10 points apiece, while Wills added 11 points. The Pioneers finished with a 41.1% shooting percentage, including 31.6% from beyond the arc.

The Rams will play in the Sid Richardson Center on Saturday at 2 p.m. against Oklahoma Panhandle State University.