CONWAY, Ark. — Leading from the beginning of the game, East Tex. Baptist University held off a late charge from Hendrix College, 71-65, for their second win of the year. ETBU capitalized with 36 points in the paint and forced 14 turnovers.
Jack Pease led the way with 23 points, including four 3-pointers, and added two steals.
Michael Roberts contributed 14 points and collected six rebounds.
Christian Dews recorded nine points and eight rebounds, while
Shad Levy added seven points and secured seven rebounds. ETBU finished shooting 42 percent going 7-of-20 from beyond the arc making 14 free throws. Hendrix also shot 42 percent with eight three-pointers. ETBU out rebounded Hendrix, 40-34.
The opening half saw ETBU establish an early advantage, initiated by
Orlando Gooden III's three-pointer at 19:00. The team capitalized on fastbreak opportunities and second-chance points, with Pease adding two three-pointers to their tally, contributing to a 9–3 lead by 16:37. Roberts assisted Levy on a fastbreak dunk at 16:23, further extending the margin to 11-3.
ETBU maintained control through defensive stops, forcing turnovers, and converting steals into points. Dews' defensive rebound allowed for a fastbreak layup by
Mason Williams, assisted by Dews, pushing the score to 24–11 at 8:26, which was ETBU's largest lead of the game. Despite Hendrix's attempts to close the gap, the Tigers closed the half leading 35–27.
A strong offensive start came from ETBU in the second half, highlighted by Dews scoring two consecutive layups, assisted by Roberts making it 39-27. Hendrix's attempted to close the gap, including a 3-pointer,but ETBU maintained control with Levy and Pease contributing crucial points, including a fast break layup and a timely 3-pointer. As the half progressed, ETBU's defense held firm, with key blocks from Dews and
Nathan Fleming. Though Hendrix rallied late, ETBU's effective free throw shooting, particularly by Roberts and Gooden, helped sustain their lead.
The game concluded with ETBU securing a 71–65 victory, effectively managing the clock and converting 7-of-8 free throws in the final minute.
ETBU travels to Georgetown, Texas, on November 29 to face Southwestern University at 2:00 p.m.
ETBU Top Performers
Jack Pease
- 23 points
- 4/9 three-pointers made
- 5/5 free throws made
- 2 steals
Michael Roberts
- 14 points
- 6 rebounds
- 4/7 free throws made
Christian Dews
- 9 points
- 8 rebounds
- 1 block
