AUSTIN, Texas – After a thrilling overtime matchup in the non-conference series finale, Texas A&M International (0-2) came up just short against No. 15 St. Edward's in the 81-78 decision.
Four different Dustdevils finished in double digits in the loss. Junior Daniel Kiely once again led the team with a season-high 21 points, shooting 9-for-12 from the field, as well as five rebounds, an assist and a steal. Junior Jamyus Jones posted 18 points with six rebounds and two assists. Junior Darrell Jones logged 16 points with three rebounds, two assists and a steal. Junior Tre Thomas again finished two rebounds shy of a double-double with 11 points and eight rebounds as well as an assist and a steal.
TAMIU stumbled a bit out of the gate as the Hilltoppers dashed out to a 20-4 run to start the game. However, they found their footing and went to work trimming the deficit, and tied the game at 24-24 with 6:21 left in the half. From there, the remainder of the half was extremely close with SEU only holding a 37-33 lead going into the intermission.
The second half played much like the first with the Hilltoppers running up a 16-point lead at 64-48 with 9:38 remaining. But once again, the Dustdevils weathered the storm and slowly fought their way back into the game and cut the margin in half at 68-60 thanks to a 10-2 run with four minutes left. They weren't done though as a layup from Kiely with six seconds left would force overtime at 71-71.
In the overtime period, TAMIU took its first lead of the game at 76-72 just a minute and a half in. However, a three-pointer and layup gave SEU the lead back at 80-76. A foul and one made free throw with seven seconds left would seal the game and give the Hilltoppers a 81-78 victory.
The Dustdevils will be back in action on Monday, Dec. 14 as they travel to Edinburg, Texas to face off against NCAA Division I UT Rio Grande Valley in an exhibition matchup at 6 p.m.
