TEXARKANA — Texas Wesleyan defeated Texas A&M Texarkana 65-60 in a closely contested game on Friday. The Rams overcame a four-point deficit in the first half to secure the win, highlighted by a strong defensive effort with 13 steals. They capitalized on turnovers, converting them into 24 points. Despite a surge from Texarkana in the second half, the Rams maintained their edge, sealing the victory with a five-point advantage. 

Texas Wesleyan opened the first half aggressively, establishing an early lead with Khalil Turner's layup at 19:25. Texas A&M Texarkana briefly seized a 3-2 advantage following Jarren Cook's 3-pointer at 19:13, but the Rams countered with a 9-2 run, highlighted by Montez Young Jr.'s 3-pointer at 14:56. Despite Texarkana's attempts to close the gap, including a fast-break layup by Kaden Keal at 1:13, the Rams maintained control. Anthony Sierras' layup at 3:32 helped secure a 31-27 lead for the Rams at the end of the half.

Throughout the half, the Rams capitalized on turnovers, extending the lead to 11 points at 2:53. Despite Texarkana's attempts to close the gap, the Rams' defense, including blocks by Turner and Oravbiere, helped secure the team's advantage. The first half concluded with the Rams leading 31–27, maintaining a narrow margin.

Texas Wesleyan initiated the second half with a series of defensive stops and scoring exchanges to maintain a slim margin. Early contributions from Young Jr., who capitalized on a turnover with a layup, helped the Rams remain competitive. As the half progressed, Hamilton's 3-pointer at 13:36 gave the Rams a brief lead, though Texarkana responded quickly to regain the advantage.

The latter half of the period saw the Rams executing a pivotal scoring run, highlighted by Young Jr.'s layup at 6:58, which contributed to regaining the lead. Despite Texarkana's efforts to close the gap, the Rams' defense and timely scoring maintained control. The half closed with Hamilton securing two free throws with 11 seconds left, sealing a 65-60 lead for the Rams at the end of the game.

Young Jr. led the team with 21 points and contributed nine rebounds, while also recording four steals. Hamilton added nine points and was active on defense with four steals. Turner posted six assists and secured seven rebounds, enhancing his all-around game. Nero chipped in with eight points and two steals, contributing to the team's defensive efforts.

The Rams return to action and open conference play in the Sid Richardson Center on Thursday against Central Christian College of Kansas, with tip-off scheduled for 8 p.m.