BARTLESVILLE — Texas Wesleyan University fell to Oklahoma Wesleyan  University, 73-67, in a closely contested matchup at the Mueller Sports Center. The Rams' defense forced 14 turnovers, but the home team's strong second-half performance secured the win.

The game began with Texas Wesleyan taking an early lead, highlighted by a three-pointer from DaeVeon Scott at 18:33. Oklahoma Wesleyan responded quickly, tying the score with a three-pointer by Ethan Williams at 17:39. As the half progressed, Matt Nero of Texas Wesleyan contributed significantly, including a three-pointer at 3:40 that extended their lead. Despite a late surge by the Eagles, which saw them briefly take a one-point lead at 1:11 following a layup and a free throw by Temaje Izuagbe, the Rams reclaimed the advantage with a three-pointer by Nero at 0:45, closing the half ahead 41-40.

Oklahoma Wesleyan secured a 73-67 victory over Texas Wesleyan after an intense second half. The home team established their largest lead of six points with just 8 seconds left, highlighted by Izuagbe's dunk and subsequent free throw. 

The Rams' Montez Young, Jr. kept the visitors competitive with consecutive layups, tying the game at 61-61 with 6:17 remaining. Daylan Hamilton also contributed significantly, hitting a three-pointer and a layup, but the Eagles' Williams and Izuagbe made key plays down the stretch to maintain their lead.

The Rams return to action on the road Friday against Texas A&M University-Texarkana, with tip-off scheduled for 6:30 p.m.