November 16, 2024
Waxahachie, TX – In a highly anticipated Sooner Athletic Conference showdown between two SAC preseason powerhouses, the Nelson University Lions, ranked No. 2, hosted No. 3 Mid-America Christian University (MACU) at the Sheaffer Center on Saturday evening. Fueled by a balanced team effort, timely scoring, and a highlight-reel moment that electrified the home crowd, the Lions claimed a hard-earned 73-66 victory to even their conference record at 1-1. Â
The Lions wasted no time asserting themselves in the opening half. Behind CJ Hall's relentless scoring ability, Nelson jumped out to a commanding 35-26 lead. Hall, who finished with a game-high 19 points, was a constant threat both inside and from beyond the arc. Jordan Jenkins and Justin Collins contributed with crucial three-pointers, keeping the Evangels
' defense off-balance. Â
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The second half brought not only fierce competition but also an unforgettable moment that will be talked about for weeks. Early in the half, Jordan Jenkins threw down a thunderous poster dunk over a MACU defender, igniting the Sheaffer Center crowd into a frenzy. The momentum from Jenkins' highlight play carried the Lions through tense stretches as they fended off a determined MACU comeback. Â
Nelson's bench depth proved pivotal, with Preston Lawrence stepping up to deliver nine points and Justin Collins adding 15, including seven free throws that kept the Lions in control during key moments. Defensively, the Lions forced turnovers that were converted into 15 points, while Trace Boling and Latrel Davis anchored the paint with crucial rebounds. Â
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Key Performers
- CJ Hall: 19 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals. Â
- Jordan Jenkins: 7 points, including the jaw-dropping dunk that electrified the gym, and solid vocal leadership in 14 minutes. Â
- Justin Collins: 15 points, 4 rebounds, and a perfect 7-for-8 from the free-throw line. Â
- Preston Lawrence: 9 points off the bench, providing a crucial spark. Â
The Lions displayed a balanced attack, with nine different players contributing to the scoring column.Â
What's Next? Â
The Lions (3-2, 1-1 SAC) now turn their attention to Monday, November 18, when they host the University of Science and Arts (Okla.) at 6:00 PM in the Sheaffer Center.
Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-SAGU
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