Eagles Edged by Rams in Close Matchup, 72-69

TEXARKANA, Texas - The Texas A&M University-Texarkana Eagles hosted Huston-Tillotson University this afternoon at the Patterson Student Center for a Red River Athletic Conference doubleheader. The visiting Rams secured a narrow victory at the buzzer, finishing 72-69.

The Rams struck first with a made free throw, but the Eagles responded with a three-pointer. Both teams traded baskets until the Eagles closed the first quarter on a 10-4 run, holding a 20-14 lead. Despite being outscored 17-15 in the second quarter, the Eagles maintained a 4-point advantage at halftime.

In the third quarter, the Eagles struggled offensively but managed to hold the lead for most of the period. Late in the quarter, a steal and transition layup by the Rams pushed them ahead, giving Huston-Tillotson a 6-point lead entering the fourth.

The Rams extended their lead early in the final quarter, reaching their largest margin of the game. However, the Eagles clawed back within one possession in the final moments. With two seconds left, the Rams sank two free throws to take a 3-point lead. The Eagles had one last chance to tie the game but were unable to get a shot off due to the Rams' strong defensive pressure.

Stat Leaders:

• Kayla Williams: Led the Eagles with 17 points and a season-high 16 rebounds, recording her fifth double-double of the season.
• Chi'onne Dailey and Delfina Misiuna: Scored 14 and 12 points, respectively.
• Gigi Waddell & Dailey: Each dished out four assists.

The Eagles fall to 3-13 overall and 3-9 in conference play, currently sitting 11th in the Red River Athletic Conference standings. Next, the Eagles will travel to LSU-Alexandria to face the Generals on Tuesday, January 7, with tipoff set for 5:00pm at The Fort.