CHICKASHA, Okla. — Texas Wesleyan (7-10, 3-8 SAC) fell to Science and Arts (14-2, 9-1 SAC), 77-60, at Drover Fieldhouse, with Science and Arts pulling away in the fourth quarter. The Rams were led by 32 points in the paint, but the Drovers countered with a 46-32 rebounding advantage.
Texas Wesleyan started the first quarter by exchanging early leads with Science and Arts, driven by Richardson's 3-pointer, which gave the team a brief advantage at the 8:48 mark. The visitors demonstrated defensive fortitude, with Goldman recording two blocks early on, which helped maintain a close score. Despite this, the Drovers capitalized on second-chance points and fast breaks, gradually building a lead. Texas Wesleyan's momentum was highlighted by a layup from Phillips at 2:50, keeping the score tight. However, Science and Arts managed to extend their lead to six points, closing the quarter at 21-15. The Rams trailed but kept the game within reach heading into the next quarter.
Texas Wesleyan began the second quarter with a strong defense but struggled offensively, managing to score 14 points. Foster's three-pointer at 8:37 helped narrow an early gap, supported by Richardson's assist. Despite defensive efforts, including a key block by Phillips, the Drovers maintained momentum with fast-break opportunities to extend their lead. The Rams capitalized on free throw opportunities, with Phillips converting four consecutive free throws to keep the game within reach. Fuller's layup at 1:24 brought them closer. However, Science and Arts' perimeter shooting, highlighted by Davlakou's three-pointer at 2:26, allowed them to maintain control. The quarter concluded with Texas Wesleyan trailing 38-29.
Texas Wesleyan started the third quarter with a strong defensive presence, as Foster and Sanford each contributed with key plays. Foster blocked a layup attempt while Sanford added a defensive rebound and an assist, creating momentum for the team. Phillips capitalized on this with a fastbreak layup, adding to the Rams' offensive efforts. Despite these efforts, the Drovers gained momentum midway through the quarter, extending their lead with a combination of inside scoring and free throws. Texas Wesleyan remained resilient, with Speights completing a three-point play in the final minutes to cut into the deficit. Science and Arts maintained their lead, closing out the quarter with an 18–14 advantage, leaving Texas Wesleyan trailing 56–43 at the end of the third quarter.
Texas Wesleyan began the fourth quarter looking to close the gap, but Science and Arts maintained their momentum, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Banks at 8:54, extending their lead. Sanford responded with a jumper to keep the Rams competitive, contributing to a total of 12 points in the paint for the quarter. Despite defensive efforts, including a block by Holmes and three steals, turnovers hindered the visiting team's chances. Texas Wesleyan managed to capitalize on fast-break opportunities, with Phillips and Richardson both converting layups in transition. As the quarter progressed, the Rams cut into the deficit with a layup from Sanford in the final seconds. However, Science and Arts held their lead, closing the game with a 77-60 victory.
Phillips led the team with 17 points and collected eight rebounds. Richardson contributed 10 points and recorded three steals. Foster added 10 points, including two 3-pointers, and grabbed three rebounds. Goldman blocked two shots and scored two points.
The Rams return home for a matchup against Mid-America Christian inside the Sid Richardson Center on Saturday, January 17 at 2pm.
