Stallions Hold the Line in PrimeTime, Top TAMUT 74–71
Stafford, Texas – January 8, 2026
Thursday night inside The Stable delivered Texas NAIA basketball the way it's meant to be played—physical, competitive, and built on respect. When it was all said and done, the North American University Stallions held their ground, defeating Texas A&M–Texarkana 74–71 in a Red River Athletic Conference battle that demanded toughness from start to finish.
North American set the tone early, carrying a 37–29 halftime lead, but the second half turned into a possession-by-possession fight. TAMUT responded with force, scoring 42 second-half points, stretching the Stallions defensively and testing their composure late.
Still, NAU never blinked.
Jayden Jackson led the way with 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting, adding four assists, three steals, and a block, while Jamarric Hammond posted 13 points, nine rebounds, and four assists, making timely plays in traffic. Joseph Cormier battled inside all night, finishing with 11 points and 12 rebounds, winning the war in the paint against a physical Eagles frontcourt.
Off the bench, Oakley Lewis delivered a crucial spark, scoring 12 points and attacking the rim during critical stretches as the game tightened. "When the game demanded leadership, the Stallions responded."
Texas A&M–Texarkana deserved every bit of respect they earned. Jarren Cook was outstanding, pouring in 25 points with six three-pointers, keeping constant pressure on the Stallions. Inside, Jason Bush Jr. and Daryl Houston controlled the glass, combining for 20 rebounds, while TAMUT's discipline and execution reflected a program that is clearly well coached and connected.
This game also became a showcase of the strength of coaching within the RRAC.
After the final buzzer, as fans filtered out of The Stable, praise for NAU's leadership echoed throughout the gym. Several parents could be overheard summing up the night simply: "Cool under fire, fiery when it mattered." Others nodded in agreement, pointing out that "Coach Doze pushed the right buttons at the right time," while another added, "Leadership showed up when the moment got heavy."
That blend of calm composure and timely intensity defined the closing moments. Known for his steady demeanor and sharp basketball mind, Coach Doze showed another dimension—knowing exactly when to turn the volume up and when to trust his team to execute.
Across the floor, Texas A&M–Texarkana's head coach once again showed why he is regarded as one of the best in the conference. His team competed with confidence, trust, and unity, embodying the respect and competitive standard that makes RRAC basketball what it is.
North American will look to build on the momentum as conference play continues, returning to action on Saturday, January 10, when the Stallions host LSU Shreveport (La.) at 3:00 PM CST inside The Stable.
