FORT WORTH, Texas — Texas Wesleyan (9-12, 5-10) defeated Oklahoma Panhandle State (5-16, 2-13), 80-39, with a dominant 41-point lead by the game's end. The Rams capitalized on turnovers, scoring 20 points off the Aggies' 23 turnovers.
Texas Wesleyan opened the first quarter with a commanding presence, taking control early through defensive pressure. The home team capitalized on turnovers by Oklahoma Panhandle State, converting them into points and establishing an 11-point lead midway through the quarter at 11–0. Points in the paint were a key factor, with contributions from
Kennedy Holmes and
Kameryn Phillips, who each made impactful layups to extend the lead. The home team's defense remained strong, limiting the visitors to just 2-for-10 shooting from the field.
Nala Richardson added a layup in the final seconds, securing an 18–7 advantage at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter saw Texas Wesleyan maintain control through strategic play and effective scoring. The quarter was highlighted by a strong start with a three-pointer from
Jenae Moore, assisted by
Alaina Hill, at 9:50. Texas Wesleyan extended their advantage with a 10-point scoring drive, including key contributions from Phillips, who added a layup and several free throws. The Aggies struggled to keep pace, with their scoring primarily coming from free throws. The Rams' defense was effective, limiting Oklahoma Panhandle State to just three field goals in the quarter. The home team capitalized on their opportunities to extend the lead to 20 points by 3:30. The quarter concluded with Texas Wesleyan leading 35–18, showcasing their ability to execute on both ends of the court.
Texas Wesleyan opened the third quarter with a strong defensive effort, forcing multiple turnovers and converting them into points in the paint. Phillips played a pivotal role with key steals and assists, contributing to the offensive surge. The team extended its lead to 22 points at one point during the quarter, showcasing effective ball movement and capitalizing on the Aggies' mistakes. Despite some scoring from Oklahoma Panhandle State, the Rams maintained control by utilizing their defensive rebounds to limit second chances. The quarter closed with Texas Wesleyan leading 54–34, maintaining a comfortable advantage heading into the final stretch.
Texas Wesleyan started the fourth quarter by extending their lead with a strong inside presence, scoring 10 points in the paint. Richardson contributed significantly, securing defensive rebounds and adding a layup to keep the momentum. As the quarter progressed, the home team continued to control the pace, capitalizing on turnovers and defensive stops. Phillips added an offensive rebound and a layup, while
Aniyah Sanford and Moore each sank key 3-pointers, further widening the lead. Texas Wesleyan closed the quarter effectively with a combination of outside shooting and free throws, highlighted by Moore's consecutive 3-pointers and Richardson's free throw conversion. The quarter ended with Texas Wesleyan leading 80–39, concluding a decisive victory.
Phillips scored 23 points and collected nine rebounds, leading the team offensively. Richardson added 12 points and recorded five steals, contributing defensively.
Sophia Hurtado finished with 11 points, converting five of her seven attempts from the field. Moore tallied nine points, all coming from beyond the arc with three 3-pointers.
The Rams go on the road next week as they travel to Point Lookout, MO to take on College of the Ozarks on Monday, Feb 2.
