TAMIU faced Arkansas Fort Smith on Saturday afternoon in Fort Smith, AR and came up short, 51-57. The Dustdevils started the game shooting 33.33% from the field and connecting on 23.08% of three-point attempts. Mathew Okoye and John Achebe were pivotal contributors, helping the team gain a 31-26 lead by halftime. Despite solid offensive efforts, struggles from beyond the arc and missed free throws impacted their performance.

TAMIU faced challenges in the second half, shooting 31.82% from the field and going scoreless from beyond the arc. Despite a significant effort from Mathew Okoye, the team struggled to maintain their first-half momentum. A dip in shooting efficiency and turnovers proved costly as the Lions seized control.

The Lions comeback came on 34.62% shooting from the field. Improved free-throw shooting and effective ball control contributed to Fort Smith's turnaround, allowing them to outscore the Dustdevils in the second half and secure the victory.

Mathew Okoye led the Dustdevils in scoring with 18. John Achebe had a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds.

The Dustdevils now travel to Tyler, TX to face UT Tyler on Thursday, January 18 at 7:30pm.