MARSHALL, Texas — Behind a relentless offensive surge, East Texas Baptist University (7-16, 1-3 ASC) secured an 89-71 victory over Howard Payne University (12-11, 0-4 ASC) on Tuesday at Ornelas Gymnasium. The tigers dominated in the paint with 58 points and capitalized on fast breaks, adding 27 points in transition. ETBU also forced 18 turnovers, contributing to their commanding win.

ETBU started the first half with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by Jack Pease's two three-pointers that contributed to their early lead. ETBU managed to establish dominance in the paint, scoring 26 points, while also capitalizing on fast breaks with eight points. Despite several turnovers, the tigers maintained their momentum through effective rebounding, securing 18 boards in total. HPU kept pace initially, tying the game three times, but ETBU ended the half ahead, 43–30.

ETBU extended their lead in the second half with a balanced attack and strong defensive play. Michael Roberts played a pivotal role, contributing multiple key baskets, including a fast-break dunk at 11:09, assisted by Orlando Gooden III. Shad Levy added a dunk at 11:25, also set up by Gooden III, to further widen the gap. Despite HPU efforts, the Tigers maintained their advantage, closing the half with a series of successful plays, including a 3-pointer by Antone Stewart IV at 1:54. The game ended with ETBU securing an 89–71 victory.

Roberts scored 28 points and collected five rebounds, demonstrating accuracy with 12 of 15 field goals made. Pease added 17 points and recorded two steals, converting three of seven attempts from beyond the arc. Nathan Fleming contributed with 14 points and 10 rebounds, also registering three steals. Gooden III provided playmaking with five assists, complementing his seven points.

First Half  
- ETBU led the paint scoring with 26 points, maintaining pressure inside.  
- Howard Payne kept pace early, tying the game three times and briefly leading with four 3-pointers.  
- Pease contributed significantly for ETBU with multiple jumpers and two 3-pointers.  
- At halftime, ETBU held a 43–30 advantage.  

Second Half
- ETBU maintained a steady offense, starting with Roberts' dunk to extend the lead early.
- Joshua Joe facilitated a strong play with an assist to Shad Levy, who scored a jumper in the paint.
- The home team showcased defensive strength with six steals, including a crucial play by Gooden III.
- At the final buzzer, ETBU secured an 89–71 victory.

ETBU hits the road this weekend, traveling to Howard Payne University for a 3:00 p.m. matchup on February 14.  

Tigers  Top Performers  

Michael Roberts  
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- 28 points  
- 12/15 field goals made  
- 2 steals  

Jack Pease  
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- 17 points  
- 3/7 three-pointers made  
- 2 steals  

Nathan Fleming  
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- 14 points  
- 10 rebounds  
- 3 steals  

Christian Dews  
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- 4 points  
- 7 rebounds  
- 1 block