Box Score North American Falls to Huston-Tillotson in Hard-Fought Battle
Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
 

Stafford, TX — The Stallions of North American University faced off against Huston-Tillotson on Saturday afternoon in front of a spirited crowd at "The Stable." Despite a valiant second-half effort, the Stallions fell short, 70-53, to the visiting Rams.

The game opened with a defensive battle, as the Stallions worked hard to keep pace with Huston-Tillotson's disciplined attack. However, the Rams took control in the first half, outscoring North American 34-14. The Stallions regrouped at halftime and came out with renewed energy, pouring in 39 second-half points. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to close the gap.

Sophomore standout Oakley Lewis led the Stallions with 15 points, including an impressive 7-of-9 from the free-throw line. Damione Thomas added 9 points, showing strong composure under pressure, while Erric Wynn contributed 9 points and 2 rebounds off the bench. Despite these efforts, the team struggled with shooting, hitting just 30.8% from the field and 0% from beyond the arc.

Defensively, the Stallions forced 11 steals and showed flashes of their potential. However, the Rams capitalized on their opportunities, shooting 45.7% from the field and an impressive 92% from the free-throw line. Huston-Tillotson's Charles Hallmon was a force to be reckoned with, recording a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

Key Performers

• Oakley Lewis (NAU): The forward was a bright spot for the Stallions, leading the team with 15 points on 4-6 shooting and hitting 7-9 free throws. He also grabbed four rebounds.
• Damione Thomas (NAU): Thomas added 9 points, going a perfect 5-5 from the free-throw line while contributing two rebounds and two blocks.
• Sean Fry (NAU): The guard chipped in 8 points, showing hustle on both ends of the court with two assists and three steals.

For Huston-Tillotson, Charles Hallmon dominated inside, recording a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Braelon Seals added 12 points and showcased his defensive skills with five steals, while Jayce Wright contributed 13 points and five rebounds.

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By the Numbers

• Field Goals: Huston-Tillotson shot a solid 45.7% from the field, compared to NAU's 30.8%.
• Three-Point Shooting: The Rams sank 5 of their 14 attempts (35.7%), while the Stallions went 0-14 from beyond the arc.
• Free Throws: Both teams were efficient from the line, with NAU shooting 78.4% (29-37) and HTU hitting an impressive 92.0% (23-25).
• Rebounds: The Rams dominated the glass, outrebounding the Stallions 31-22.

The Stallions' record now stands at 8-14 (4-12), while the Rams improve to 5-13 (5-11).

Motivation from the E-Gaming Coach – Rev. Jackson's Message to the Team

"Hey guys, this is Coach Jackson. I know we usually talk PUBG, Fortnite, and Rocket League, but just like those games, it ain't over until the chicken dinner is served. Fellas, our Chicken Dinner is waiting for us in Buffalo, New York, at the USCAA National Tournament. We still have ammo left, and there's time on the clock before the storm rolls in.

Coach Doze, Hopkins, Peters, and Sharma believe in you. They've seen your hustle and grind all season long, and they know you've got what it takes to punch that ticket. So, start punching! Let's finish strong, Stallions. Get those plane tickets ready because we are Top Tier.

As our Athletic Director, Coach Apande, says every day: 'Hooves Up.' But let me add this—faith without works is dead, and you've been putting in the work all season. Now's the time to trust the process, lean on each other, and let your light shine before men so they may see the greatness God has placed in you.

So, Stallions, let's finish this race the way we started—with heart, grit, and a belief that the best is yet to come. Hooves Up, and let's go claim what's ours. Amen."

The Stallions will return to action next week, determined to bounce back and keep their postseason dreams alive. Fans, let's pack The Stable and rally behind our team! Hooves Up, Stallion Nation!