GOODWELL — Texas Wesleyan University (5-3, 2-2 SAC) secured a 77-62 victory over Oklahoma Panhandle State University (1-7, 0-4 SAC) Thursday at Anchor D Arena. The Rams pulled away in the second half, establishing an 18-point lead with 25 seconds remaining in the game.

The game began with the Rams taking an early lead, sparked by Montez Young, Jr.'s two 3-pointers in the opening minutes, assisted by Daniel Oravbiere and Daylan Hamilton, respectively. By the 10:33 mark, Texas Wesleyan held a 17-point advantage after a 3-pointer by Darrion Mctier, assisted by DaeVeon Scott. The Aggies struggled to close the gap, with Christian Campbell contributing a pair of 3-pointers to narrow the deficit. However, the Rams maintained their lead, finishing the first half ahead 35-31 after Matt Nero's defensive rebound and block in the final seconds.

Texas Wesleyan took control in the second half, leveraging a strong offensive performance to secure a decisive victory over the Aggies. The visitors extended their lead to 18 points late in the game, highlighted by a three-pointer from Young Jr. at the 2:12 mark. Nero contributed significantly with a series of free throws and a three-pointer, while Scott added a fast-break layup to keep the momentum with the Rams. Oklahoma Panhandle State attempted to close the gap with a three-pointer from Campbell, but the Texas Wesleyan defense held firm to clinch a 77-62 win.

Young, Jr. was perfect from the field, scoring 17 points on 7-of-7 shooting, including three 3-pointers. Nero led the team with 17 points, converting 8-of-9 free throws and adding three steals. Khalil Turner added 10 points and collected five rebounds while recording two steals. Oravbiere contributed nine points and secured seven rebounds, along with two blocks.

TXWES will play again on the road Saturday at Wayland Baptist University with the game scheduled to start at 4 p.m.