PLAINVIEW, TX – Texas Wesleyan University displayed resilience but fell short against Wayland Baptist University, losing 64-57 at the Hutcherson Center on Thursday night.

The Rams (13-6, 9-6 SAC) took a 23-20 lead into halftime, fueled by strong defensive play and key offensive contributions from Richard Amaefule, who led the team with 17 points and five rebounds. Amaefule dominated the paint early, helping Texas Wesleyan extend its lead to as many as 10 points early in the second half.

Wayland Baptist (12-8, 12-4 SAC) struggled offensively in the first half, shooting just 20.7% from the field and 15.8% from beyond the arc. However, the Pioneers came alive in the second half, led by Quenton Coleman's 27-point performance. Coleman shot 13-of-14 from the free-throw line and hit two clutch three-pointers to power Wayland's comeback.

After trailing by 10 early in the second half, the Pioneers responded with a 16-4 run to take the lead, aided by turnovers and a series of fast-break points. Kaba Kabine added 11 points and four rebounds for Wayland Baptist, while Dylan McDougal chipped in nine points, including two three-pointers.

The Rams battled to stay within striking distance, with Amaefule, Montez Young Jr., and Kaden Morgan making crucial plays down the stretch. Young posted a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Morgan contributed nine points.

Despite shooting a respectable 41.2% from the field, the Rams struggled from beyond the arc, connecting on 5-of-21 attempts (23.8%). Free-throw shooting and second-chance opportunities also proved pivotal, with Wayland converting 20-of-25 from the line and scoring 12 second-chance points compared to the TXWES' 10 points.

The Rams return to action Saturday at 3:45 p.m. against Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Goodwell, OK.