LANGSTON, Okla. — Texas Wesleyan (12-15, 8-13 SAC) edged Langston University (23-4, 17-4 SAC), 55-54, with a decisive fourth-quarter performance, overcoming an 11-point deficit by outscoring the Lions 17-14 in the final quarter.
Texas Wesleyan began the game with a strong defensive presence, forcing four turnovers in the first quarter.
Nala Richardson capitalized on free throw opportunities early, while
Kameryn Phillips added a bucket to narrow the score gap. Despite defensive efforts, the Lions maintained control in the paint, contributing to an early lead.
Kennedy Holmes closed the quarter with a late basket, reducing the deficit. As the first quarter concluded, the Rams trailed 11-6.
Texas Wesleyan began the second quarter with a decisive scoring drive, narrowing the gap with a series of successful field goals. The team capitalized on turnovers, with
Iasia Goldman and
Jenae Moore each swiping a steal to shift momentum. Moore's performance was crucial, draining consecutive 3-pointers, including a fast-break shot with 38 seconds remaining. Defensively, the Rams limited their opponents to just four field goals, effectively closing the paint and allowing only two points from inside. By the end of the quarter, Texas Wesleyan had outscored Langston 18-10, leveling the score at 24-24.
Texas Wesleyan began the third quarter with
Aniyah Sanford finishing at the rim on an assist from Phillips, extending its lead. However, the Lions quickly responded, eventually tying the game at 26 and taking a brief lead. Texas Wesleyan countered with a three-pointer from Sanford, assisted by Holmes, regaining momentum. Midway through the quarter, a three-pointer by
Peyton Foster, assisted by Phillips, pushed Texas Wesleyan ahead again. Despite Langston's attempts to close the gap, the Rams maintained their advantage with another three-pointer by Foster, assisted by Sanford. In the closing moments, Texas Wesleyan experienced turnovers that allowed Langston to edge ahead, ending the quarter with a 40-38 lead over the Rams.
Texas Wesleyan opened the fourth quarter with Goldman securing an offensive rebound and converting it into a basket to tie the score at 40. The team maintained momentum with a key 3-pointer from
Sophia Hurtado at 4:56, leveling the score once more. Hurtado continued her impact by sinking two free throws, giving Texas Wesleyan a narrow lead. As the quarter progressed, Holmes added another crucial basket, and Moore followed up with a 3-pointer at 1:16, extending Texas Wesleyan's advantage. Despite Langston's efforts to close the gap, Richardson scored with just two seconds left, securing a final lead. Texas Wesleyan claimed the fourth quarter with a 17–14 scoring advantage, concluding the game with a 55–54 victory.
Aniyah Sanford scored nine points and recorded one steal, contributing both offensively and defensively. Moore made three 3-pointers, totaling nine points and adding one steal. Phillips contributed with three assists and collected five rebounds. Hurtado posted eight points, including two 3-pointers, and led with five rebounds.
The Rams travel to McPherson, KS to take on Central Christian College (KS) on Saturday, January 21 for the final regular season game of 2025-26.