LAREDO, Texas (February 11, 2017) - The Texas A&M International University Men's Basketball team hosted Oklahoma Christian in the TAMIU KCB on Saturday afternoon. TAMIU picked up an 83-79 win over the Eagles, moving to 16-9 overall (10-5 Heartland Conference). 

First Half:
The Dustdevils fell behind early in Saturday's matchup, facing a 13 point deficit through eight minutes of play. TAMIU would respond, taking the lead with 7:36 remaining on a Kamari Robinson three. TAMIU would only allow OC to take one more advantage in the final seven minutes of first half of play. As the halftime buzzer sounded, TAMIU had erased a 13 point deficit and led 35-31. Denzel Bellot picked up 10 points in the first 20 minutes of action. 

Second Half:
Neither team would score through three minutes of action in the second half before Bellot connected on a pair of free-throws, putting TAMIU ahead by six. TAMIU would strecth their lead to 13 at it's highest point, leading by 10 with just nine minutes remaining. With just under three minutes remaining in regulation, the Eagles were able to cut the Dustdevil lead to just one. Kenny Hatch connected with Arthur Santanna on a full-court pass and layup, pushing the lead back to six 1:36 remaining. A free-throw from Hatch with four seconds remaining allowed TAMIU to take a four point lead, leading to a 83-79 win. Bellot led all scorers in the second half, putting up 17 points. 

Bellot finished the afternoon with 27 points and three rebounds. Hatch added 21 points and four steals. 

Coaches Corner:
Head Coach Bryan Weakley commented on the win, "We did a great job making OC's guards feel uncomfortable. However, our defense needs to sharpen up as we near the end of the season."

Up Next:
The Dustdevils will host Arlington Baptist in the KCB on Monday, February 13. Tip-off is set for 2pm. 

Stay Tuned:
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