FORT WORTH, Texas — Texas Wesleyan University (6-8, 2-6 SAC) fell to College of the Ozarks (9-5, 6-2 SAC), 61-60, in a closely contested matchup at the Sid Richardson Center.

The first quarter began with Texas Wesleyan establishing an early lead through a jumper by Kennedy Holmes, followed by a 3-pointer from Jenae Moore to go up 5–2 at 8:25. Despite initial control, turnovers and fouls allowed the Bobcats to seize momentum midway through, building a nine-point lead at 3:33 with contributions from Keara Mattingley and Zoe Hinze. The Rams responded with a 3-pointer by Nala Richardson, narrowing the deficit to 17–8, before Sophia Hurtado added a layup. In the closing minutes, the Rams cut into the lead with scoring efforts from Peyton Foster and Alaina Hill, ending the quarter trailing 22–18.

Texas Wesleyan began the second quarter with a defensive stop, as Holmes recorded a steal early on. Kameryn Phillips contributed significantly by scoring on a fast-break layup and a jumper, closing the gap to four points. Despite the effort, the Bobcats extended their lead to nine points midway through the quarter, capitalized by a three-pointer from Abigail McBride at 6:03. The home team responded with critical plays, including a three-pointer by Hurtado and a jumper from Foster, narrowing the deficit. However, the Bobcats maintained pressure, ending the quarter with two free throws by McBride. The quarter concluded with the Bobcats leading 38-32.

Texas Wesleyan began the third quarter by closing the gap with contributions in the paint, scoring six points while effectively countering the Bobcats' offensive efforts. Aniyah Sanford and Richardson were instrumental, each securing key rebounds and adding to the team's points. Despite a brief surge by the Bobcats that extended their lead to 12, the Rams responded with a timely three-pointer from Moore, assisted by Holmes, helping to keep the deficit manageable. In the latter part of the quarter, Texas Wesleyan capitalized on fast break opportunities, with Holmes scoring a layup off an assist from Sanford. This play highlighted their ability to convert defensive stops into quick offensive actions. However, the Bobcats maintained their advantage, ending the quarter ahead by a score of 54-44.

Texas Wesleyan initiated the fourth quarter with a strong defensive presence, forcing turnovers and converting them into points. Phillips made a significant impact with multiple steals and layups, contributing to a scoring push that narrowed the gap. Despite the effort, the Rams faced a resilient opponent, who managed to maintain a slim lead through key free throws. As time wound down, the Rams continued their push with Phillips securing crucial baskets, including a layup with 17 seconds remaining to bring the score within one. A turnover by the Bobcats provided a final opportunity, but a late turnover by Texas Wesleyan sealed the quarter. The game concluded with a narrow defeat, 61-60, as the visitors edged out with their early quarter lead.

Phillips led the team with 19 points and added eight rebounds, converting 5 of 6 free throws. Sanford contributed defensively with three steals and three assists. Holmes scored four points and recorded two steals while distributing three assists. Iasia Goldman made a defensive impact with four blocks and two rebounds.

The Rams stay home this weekend as they take on the Golden Eagles of John Brown University on Saturday, January 10 at 2PM.