PLAINVIEW, TX —Texas Wesleyan University fell to Wayland Baptist University, 62-56, in a nail-biting Sooner Athletic Conference clash at the Hutcherson Center.

Despite holding a seven-point lead entering the fourth quarter, the Rams could not stave off a late surge by the Flying Queens.

Kameryn Phillips paced Texas Wesleyan (12-7, 8-7 SAC) with 19 points, converting an efficient 6-of-8 from the field and a perfect 7-of-7 from the free-throw line. Savanna Smith added 14 points, including four three-pointers, while Taryn Wills contributed 12 points and four rebounds. The Rams shot 38.5% from the field and capitalized on 11 steals to generate 13 points off turnovers.

The Rams came out strong, holding a 17-9 lead after the first quarter behind eight points from Phillips and a three-pointer by Smith. Their defensive pressure forced multiple turnovers, allowing Texas Wesleyan to control the pace early.

However, Wayland Baptist (17-2, 14-2 SAC) responded in the second quarter, outscoring Texas Wesleyan 23-14 to take a narrow 32-31 lead at halftime. Megan Nestor and Kaitlyn Jerden fueled the Flying Queens' comeback, combining for 15 points in the period.

The Rams regained momentum in the third quarter, with Smith hitting two crucial three-pointers to spark an 11-4 run that extended their lead to 48-41. Hurtado and Gibson added key baskets during the stretch, giving the Rams confidence heading into the final period.

In the fourth quarter, Wayland Baptist dominated, outscoring Texas Wesleyan 21-8. Nestor, who finished with 20 points and 18 rebounds, controlled the glass and delivered timely scores, while Jerden led all scorers with 24 points. The Flying Queens capitalized on the Rams' turnovers and missed opportunities, sealing the game with clutch free throws from Emily Sigala and Linda Brice.

The Rams will play against Oklahoma Panhandle State University on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Goodwell, OK.