FORT WORTH — Texas Wesleyan (9-4, 5-3 SAC) defeated the College of the Ozarks (5-9, 2-6 SAC) 77-64 at the Sid Richardson Center. The Rams led by as many as 17 points in the second half, propelled by a strong defensive effort that included 14 steals. The Bobcats managed to cut the lead to single digits but could not overcome the deficit despite shooting 37.5 percent from beyond the arc.

The match-up began with DJ Quarles hitting a 3-pointer to give the visitors an early lead. Texas Wesleyan responded with a series of plays, including a fast-break dunk by Khalil Turner at 15:37, followed by a 3-pointer from Matt Nero off an assist by DaeVeon Scott at 14:10. Montez Young, Jr. was pivotal in the paint, scoring multiple layups and free throws, helping Texas Wesleyan take control. The first half concluded with Texas Wesleyan leading 39-33, capped by Nero's free throws in the final second.

Texas Wesleyan extended its lead early in the second half with a 3-pointer from Daylan Hamilton, assisted by Turner, pushing the score to 42-33. The home team capitalized on turnovers by the Bobcats, with Daniel Oravbiere and Hamilton both scoring off steals to further widen the gap. A pivotal moment came at the 10:20 mark when Hamilton sank another 3-pointer, maintaining Texas Wesleyan's momentum. Despite late efforts from the Bobcats, including a 3-pointer by Andrew Dalton with 1:06 remaining, Texas Wesleyan held a steady advantage, closing out the half with a 77-64 victory.

Hamilton scored 21 points, including three 3-pointers, and recorded four steals. Young, Jr. collected 13 rebounds and added 13 points. Nero tallied 17 points and converted 7 of 9 free throws. Oravbiere pulled down 11 rebounds and blocked two shots.

The Rams will return to action in the Sid Richardson Center against John Brown University on Saturday at 4 p.m.