Waxahachie, TX | February 5, 2026 — In front of a lively Sheaffer Center crowd, the No. 8 Nelson University Lions delivered another emphatic home performance Thursday night, pulling away in the second half for an 85–74 win over Oklahoma City University.
The opening half unfolded as a back-and-forth battle. Oklahoma City shot efficiently early, but Nelson stayed within striking distance behind the shot-making brilliance of Micah Clark, who was nearly automatic from the field. Clark poured in 21 first-half points, keeping the Lions close as they trailed 43–38 at the break.
After halftime, the Lions flipped the switch.
Nelson came out sharper, more physical, and more connected on both ends of the floor. Defensive stops began turning into transition opportunities, and the offense found a steady rhythm. Abram Hicks brought an immediate spark off the bench, attacking the glass, making timely plays, and stretching the floor with confidence. His energy ignited a decisive run that swung momentum firmly in Nelson's favor.
Clark continued to torch the nets, finishing with a game-high 34 points on 14-of-23 shooting, showcasing his full arsenal from deep, midrange, and at the rim. JJ Boling added 14 points with three triples and key defensive moments, while Jesse Iweze battled inside for eight points, six rebounds, and three blocks.
Hicks' impact went far beyond the box score. He totaled seven points and eight rebounds in just 18 minutes, consistently making winning plays that helped Nelson control the second half. The Lions won the rebounding battle, capitalized on turnovers, and outscored the Stars 47–31 after halftime to build their largest lead of 15 late in the contest.
As the final minutes ticked away, Nelson calmly closed things out at the free-throw line, sealing another statement victory in conference play and sending the home crowd home satisfied.
Next Up
The Lions stay home on Saturday, February 7, hosting Southwestern Christian at 4:00 PM at the Sheaffer Center for another important test.
Nelson University (formerly SA GU) 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-NELSON.
