Story and photo by Robert H Kelly Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved
HOUSTON, TEXAS (January 11, 2025) The Houston Christian University Huskies kicked off their four-game homestand with a thrilling 81-76 win over the University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals on Saturday afternoon at Sharp Gymnasium. Playing at home for the first time in over a month, the Huskies closed the game on an 8-2 run, locking up their second straight victory and improving to 6-10 overall and 3-2 in Southland Conference play. The game started with an unusual twist: an administrative technical foul gave HCU a 1-0 lead before the opening tip. After that, both teams traded punches in a fast-paced first half. HCU’s Julian Mackey hit two three-pointers and led a scoring burst that turned a six-point deficit into a 41-36 halftime lead.
In the second half, the Cardinals cut into the Huskies’ lead, and the teams went back and forth. HCU looked to pull away midway through the half thanks to a hot streak from Bryson Dawkins and D’Aundre Samuels, who combined for 19 straight points. Dawkins hit four three-pointers in the game and finished with a team-high 17 points.
Despite HCU’s strong push, UIW stormed back late, taking a 74-73 lead with 3:46 left. But the Huskies wouldn’t be denied. stepped up with two clutch layups, including one with under two minutes remaining to reclaim the lead. Brooks finished with 15 points, seven rebounds, and four assists.
HCU’s defense locked down the Cardinals in the final minutes, holding them to just two points over the last 3:46. Dawkins and Trent Johnson added key free throws to seal the win.
The Huskies shot a sizzling 54% from the field and matched their season-best with 11 three-pointers, hitting 52% from deep.
The Cardinals (9-7, 2-3 Southland) were led by Jordan Pyke’s 27 points, but their comeback fell short.
Next, the Huskies face conference leader McNeese State at Sharp Gym on Monday night at 7 p.m.
