CHICKASHA — Texas Wesleyan (University 11-5, 7-4  SAC) edged the University of Science and Arts (5-11, 1-9 SAC) with a 71-70 victory on Thursday at Drover Fieldhouse. 

The Rams' defense recorded five blocks and eight steals, contributing to the narrow win.

The game began with Science and Arts taking an early 10-1 lead, highlighted by Chris Yapo's fast-break dunk at 19:17. The Rams responded with a 9-0 run, capped by a three-pointer from Montez Young, Jr. at the 15:55 mark, narrowing the gap to 10-9. 

The Drovers maintained their edge, with Lendy Holmes contributing a three-pointer at 8:59, extending the lead to 27-22. Despite a late rally from Texas Wesleyan, Science and Arts held a 40-36 advantage at the end of the first half, as Brett Nix converted two free throws with 4 seconds remaining.

The second half was marked by a significant momentum shift as Texas Wesleyan overcame an 11-point deficit. Daylan Hamilton's three-pointer at 17:01 cut the gap to one, and Young's layup tied the game at 53 with 11:56 remaining. Science and Arts briefly regained control with a three-pointer by Bryce Cowns at 10:47, but Texas Wesleyan continued to rally. 

Young secured the lead for the Rams with a pair of free throws at 2:39, and DaeVeon Scott's free throw with five seconds left sealed the 71-70 victory.

Young led the way with 18 points, converting 7 of 14 field goals and adding two blocks. Hamilton contributed 16 points, hitting 3 of 4 from beyond the arc and securing six rebounds.

 Khalil Turner finished with 14 points, making 5 of 13 shots and collecting five rebounds. Scott tallied six points and dished out six assists, while also recording two steals.

The Rams return to action on Saturday in the Sid Richardson Center against Mid-America Christian University, with tip-off scheduled for 4 p.m.