November 6, 2023

Dallas, TX - The Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) Lions men's basketball team took their talents to the big stage as they faced off against the Division 1 Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs in their first road contest of the 2023-24 season. While the odds were stacked against them with just a 5.1% chance of victory, the Lions displayed incredible ball movement and quick-witted defensive efforts. The result? A hard-fought contest that ended with a score of 82-63 in favor of SMU.
 

Lion Review
The game opened with an electrifying burst as CJ Hall and Kylon Owens showcased their scoring prowess, netting consecutive buckets beautifully assisted by Alerick Hall. It was a promising start for the Lions, and the crowd sensed a grudge match in the making.

Off the bench, CJ Kelley and Justin Collins provided the Lions' offense with an additional spark. Justin Collins's strength was on full display as he brushed off Mustangs defenders to convert a heavily contested layup, forcing SMU to call a timeout for a defensive adjustment.

At halftime, the SAGU Lions trailed the SMU Mustangs by just four points, with a score of 43-39. CJ Hall led all scorers at halftime with 12 points, shooting an impressive 5 for 9. Kylon Owens had 10 points and a remarkable six rebounds. CJ Kelley and Justin Collins both chipped in with six points each. Alerick Hall dominated in the playmaking department, tallying six assists.

In the second half, both teams continued to exchange blows, displaying great hustle and fierce competitiveness.

However, it was the difference in offensive rebounds that helped SMU extend their lead in the closing moments. SMU secured 18 offensive rebounds, while the Lions managed 10.

Kylon Owens's performance in the paint was stellar, showcasing a soft touch to convert post hooks and skyhooks, keeping the Lions within striking distance.

Key Stats 

• Kylon Owens scored 16 points and came just one rebound shy of recording a double-double.
• CJ Hall added 12 points.
• CJ Kelley contributed 10 points, six rebounds, and an athletic block.
• Alerick Hall led the game with eight assists and also added eight points.

Head Coach Delton Deal praised his team's effort, saying, "So proud of our effort tonight. I think we showed our character, and I'm glad others got to see who our players are as people and players. We ran out of gas at the end, but I think we competed at a high level, and we are proud of them."

Up next, the Lions will return home on November 9th to face off against Dallas Christian College at the Sheaffer Center in Waxahachie, Texas. The game will also feature a banquet to honor SAGU basketball alumni. 

As a leading Christian university, SAGU educates and prepares individuals who want to serve Christ and others. SAGU helps students discover and develop their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered, learning community. We believe in affordable tuition, made possible in part through the financial support of donors who embrace the mission of SAGU and the importance of affordable, accredited programs to train Christians for leadership in ministry, business, education, and service. Most majors are available in-person in Waxahachie, TX, and online through a wide range of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.