FORT WORTH, TX – Texas Wesleyan University (14-8, 10-8 SAC) put up a valent second-half fight but fell short in a 76-70 loss to John Brown University (15-8, 13-6 SAC) on Thursday at Sid Richardson Arena.

The Rams struggled offensively in the first half, shooting 33.3% from the field and missing all six three-point attempts. Meanwhile, the Golden Eagles capitalized on efficient shooting and free throws, building a 33-25 halftime lead.

John Brown's Trae Oetting led all scorers with 23 points, going 13-of-15 from the free-throw line, while Drew Miller added 13 points, and Carter Carbonell chipped in 12 off the bench. The Golden Eagles shot 83.9% from the free-throw line, a key factor in maintaining their lead.

Texas Wesleyan found its rhythm in the second half, led by Vegas Evans, who finished with 18 points and nine rebounds. Richard Amaefule contributed 16 points, while Trey Sinegal added 14. The Rams shot 50% from the field in the final 20 minutes and trimmed the deficit to two early in the second half.

A three-pointer from Sinegal briefly gave TXWES the lead, but JBU responded with a decisive run fueled by Miller and Elijah Lawrence. The Golden Eagles extended their lead to 15 with just over six minutes remaining. The Rams made a late push, but John Brown's accuracy at the free-throw line sealed the victory.

The Rams return to the Sid Richardson Center at 2 p.m. on Saturday to play the College of the Ozarks on Senior Day.