GOODWELL, OK — Texas Wesleyan dominated Oklahoma Panhandle State, 65-45, on Saturday afternoon at Anchor D Arena, led by a balanced offensive effort and stifling defense.
The Rams improved to 13-7 overall and 9-7 in Sooner Athletic Conference play, while Oklahoma Panhandle State fell to 1-19 overall and 1-16 in the SAC.
The opening quarter was a tight battle, with Texas Wesleyan edging out a 13-12 lead. Taryn Wills opened the scoring, and Kameryn Phillips contributed key points early. The Rams forced critical turnovers, but Oklahoma Panhandle State stayed close, highlighted by Heidi Rodriguez's three-pointer and Diana Santos' late layup.
The Rams began to separate themselves in the second quarter, using a combination of strong defense and fast-break opportunities. Kamryn Gibson nailed a three-pointer, while Sophia Hurtado and Imani Mitchell each scored in transition. Texas Wesleyan's defense held Oklahoma Panhandle State to just 10 points in the period, with timely steals and defensive stops disrupting the Aggies' offense. At halftime, the Rams led 27-22.
Texas Wesleyan took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Aggies 20-7. Phillips led the charge, contributing eight points in the quarter, including a pair of free throws and a layup. Hurtado and Mitchell also added crucial baskets, and the Rams' defense forced multiple turnovers, converting them into fast-break points. By the end of the quarter, Texas Wesleyan held a commanding 47-29 lead.
In the fourth quarter, the Rams extended their advantage, with Savanna Smith sinking an early three-pointer to set the tone. Wills and Peyton Foster added key baskets in the paint, and the Rams' defense remained relentless, holding the Aggies to just 16 points in the final frame. Texas Wesleyan's largest lead of the game came with 6:22 remaining when they went up by 22 points.
Phillips led the Rams with 18 points, while Wills added 10 points and five rebounds. Rodriguez paced the Aggies with 14 points.
Texas Wesleyan returns to action next week, in the Sid Richardson Center against the University of Science & Arts on Saturday.
