November 18, 2024

Waxahachie, TX – The Nelson University Lions delivered a commanding second-half performance to secure a 63-56 victory over the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO) on Monday evening at the Sheaffer Center. The Lions improved to 4-2 on the season and 2-1 in Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) play, while the Drovers fell to 2-3 overall.

Lions Review
The game was a tale of two halves, with the Drovers controlling much of the early action. Nelson found themselves down 26-22 at the halftime break after shooting just 29% from the field and a frigid 12.5% from beyond the arc. USAO capitalized on the Lions' struggles, building an early lead behind efficient inside play.

However, the Lions came alive in the second half, sparked by CJ Hall's relentless scoring effort. Hall finished the game with a team-high 20 points, converting 8-of-11 free throws and showing poise in the clutch. The Lions shot an impressive 50% in the second half, including 4-of-9 from three-point range, to outscore the Drovers 41-30 and secure the win.

The turning point came early in the second half when Trace Boling and Justin Collins provided a spark off the bench. Boling's energy on both ends of the court and Collins' efficient scoring helped Nelson seize momentum. The Lions also dominated the glass, with Jordan Jenkins pulling down seven rebounds and JJ Boling adding six.

Despite late pressure from the Drovers, Nelson's defense held firm, limiting USAO's chances and forcing crucial turnovers in the final minutes. Kylon Owens added a critical six points and four rebounds, ensuring the Lions protected their lead down the stretch.
 

Player Highlights

• CJ Hall: 20 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 8-for-11 free-throw shooting.
• Justin Collins: 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists off the bench.
• Trace Boling: 6 points and 5 rebounds, making key plays in the second half.
• Jordan Jenkins: 5 points and a game-high 7 rebounds.

The Lions showed balance across the roster, with bench players contributing 22 points and providing much-needed depth. Nelson also capitalized on USAO turnovers, scoring 19 points off miscues.
 

Key Team Stats

• Points in the Paint: 30
• Bench Points: 22
• Second-Chance Points: 11
• Free Throw Shooting: 60.0% (9-for-15)

Next Up
The Lions will look to carry their momentum into their next SAC matchup as they head to Goodwell, Oklahoma, to take on Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU). Tip-off is set for Thursday, November 21, at 8 PM.

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.