Laredo, Texas – The Dustdevils (14-10, 10-8) faced a tough opponent in fourth-ranked Dallas Baptist (20-3, 14-3) in Lone Star Conference play Thursday night at home. However, TAMIU's strong defensive effort, coupled with their efficient scoring, proved too much for the Patriots to overcome as the Dustdevils earned the 65-55 upset.

The win marks their best performance over a ranked opponent since defeating No. 15 Colorado Mesa in November 2022.

The Dustdevils were in control for most of the night, holding the lead for 35 of 40 minutes. Holding DBU to under 30 points each half, TAMIU showed why they have one of the best defenses in the Lone Star Conference.

In the first twenty minutes, the Dustdevils shot 12-25 (48%) from the field and 5-10 (50%) from three-point range. Jaylen Thompson and John Achebe led the game in first half points, with nine and eight respectively.

The Dustdevil defense held the Patriots to just 26 points in the first half, the lowest points they have scored in the first half this season. DBU shot 10-28 (35.7%) from the field and just 1-11 (9.1%) from beyond the arc.

Leading by as many as 18, the Dustdevils kept their foot on the gas for the second half and did not let DBU close the gap.

TAMIU's defense held the Patriots to 9-23 (39.1%) from the field and 2-9 (22.2%) from three-point range.

The Dustdevils shot 15-30 (50%) from the field and 1-8 (12.5%) beyond the arc. Thompson was the team's leading scorer on the night with 13. Achebe finished with 12 and Olaverr Camacho added 10.

TAMIU returns to action on Saturday, February 17 for Senior Day at 3 p.m. against UT Tyler in the TAMIU KCB.