FORT WORTH, Texas — Texas Wesleyan University (11-14, 7-12) defeated University of Science and Arts (17-8, 12-7), 63-55, at the Sid Richardson Center, led by a 21-point advantage late in the second quarter. Texas Wesleyan capitalized on turnovers, converting them into 21 points, while maintaining a steady free-throw performance, hitting 17 of 23 attempts.

The game started with Texas Wesleyan gaining momentum after a slow start, overcoming an early six-point deficit to Science and Arts with a strong defensive effort. The Rams capitalized on turnovers, converting them into six points. The team also benefitted from bench contributions, adding seven points to their tally. Despite initially trailing, Texas Wesleyan took control by the quarter's end, highlighted by a crucial 3-pointer from Aniyah Sanford at the 50-second mark. This scoring drive contributed to the Rams' eight-point lead at the close of the first quarter, with the score at 15-7.

Texas Wesleyan maintained control in the second quarter, opening with a series of scoring plays that widened its advantage. Jenae Moore's early jumper set the tone, followed by Nala Richardson and Sophia Hurtado each adding a 3-pointer, pushing the lead to double digits. Kameryn Phillips contributed with key free throws and a jumper, further extending the home team's lead. Throughout the quarter, the Rams capitalized on turnovers and defensive rebounds, limiting the Drovers' opportunities. Richardson's jumper at the 40-second mark capped off the quarter, establishing a 21-point lead. The quarter ended with Texas Wesleyan ahead 35-17.

Science and Arts mounted a significant challenge in the third quarter, cutting into Texas Wesleyan's lead with effective shooting. The Drovers converted 9-of-14 field goals and 3-of-4 from beyond the arc, narrowing the gap. Despite Texas Wesleyan's struggles from the field, hitting only 2-of-17 shots, Sanford made a key 3-pointer to maintain the team's narrow advantage. Texas Wesleyan managed to hold a lead early in the quarter, but Science and Arts' quick scoring reduced the margin. The home team capitalized on free throws from Kyla Speights and a timely 3-pointer from Sanford to keep ahead. However, the Drovers' persistent scoring closed the quarter with Texas Wesleyan's lead trimmed to 43–42.

Texas Wesleyan extended its lead early in the fourth quarter with back-to-back 3-pointers from Jenae Moore and Sophia Hurtado, assisted by Kennedy Holmes and Peyton Foster, respectively. Richardson added to the momentum with a layup, capitalizing on Foster's defensive rebound, bringing the score to 51-42. The home team maintained control, with Phillips converting a layup and free throw, assisted by Holmes, to push the lead further. Sanford's 3-pointer at 3:11, followed by Hurtado's free throws at 2:28, gave the Rams an eleven-point advantage. Despite a brief surge from the Drovers, Texas Wesleyan closed the quarter effectively, with Richardson scoring a layup and a few free throws in the final minute, sealing a 63-55 victory.

Richardson scored 17 points and collected nine rebounds while also making two steals. Sanford added 12 points, all from four 3-pointers, and contributed one assist. Holmes recorded five assists and made three steals. Hurtado posted 11 points and grabbed seven rebounds, including two offensive boards.

The Rams start their road trip with a trip to Oklahoma City to take on Mid-America Christian University on Saturday, February 14 at 2pm.