JACKSON, Miss. — A strong second-half showing by East Texas Baptist University, outscoring Belhaven University, 43-39, wasn't enough to overcome a first-half deficit of 11 points as they fell to the Blazers, 77-70. ETBU is now 0-2 on the year.
The team was led by a fast-paced offense that generated 23 fast-break points and capitalized on turnovers, scoring 25 points off Belhaven's 18 giveaways. However, Belhaven's edge in rebounding and three-point shooting proved decisive in the close contest. ETBU shot 38 percent from the floor, 27 percent from the arc, and was 14-of-20 from the line. BU finished shooting 44 percent, made 34 percent from the three-point line, and shot 50 percent at the stripe.
Jack Pease scored 16 points and recorded four steals as
Nathan Fleming added 14 points and collected 11 rebounds for his double-double of the year.
Michael Roberts contributed 12 points and posted two steals and
Orlando Gooden III also scored 12 points and recorded three assists.
ETBU began the first half with a strong defensive presence, highlighted by Pease's early steal and fast break layup at 18:08, putting them within a point. Pease continued to contribute offensively, scoring a three-pointer at 17:18 to briefly give the visitors a lead. Despite their efforts, Belhaven's consistent scoring allowed them to pull ahead at the half, 38–27.
The Tigers initiated a comeback in the second half, sparked by Roberts, who stole the ball and converted a fast break layup just seven seconds in. The team capitalized on this momentum, with Fleming's dunk at 13:39 narrowing Belhaven's lead to four points. Gooden III's back-to-back three-pointers further tightened the gap, bringing the score to 55-52 trailing by just three. Despite their efforts, the Tigers faced challenges as Belhaven maintained their lead. ETBU was within one, three times, with just under 10 minutes to play but BU built their lead back to 10 with four minutes left to play. BU held off a late ETBU charge for the seven-point win.
ETBU will host the University of St. Thomas Houston on Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in Ornelas Gym.
East Tex. Baptist Top Performers
Jack Pease
- 16 points
- 4 steals
- 4 assists
Nathan Fleming
- 14 points
- 11 rebounds
- 1 block
Michael Roberts
- 12 points
- 6 rebounds
- 2 steals
Orlando Gooden III
- 12 points
- 4/4 free throws made
- 3 assists
