HCU ends Southland Conference tournament play with loss to New Orleans

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (March 8, 2026) The season came to an end for the Houston Christian University Huskies on Sunday night after a 73–60 loss to the New Orleans Privateers in the first round of the Southland Conference Men's Basketball Tournament. The game was played at Townsley Law Arena on the campus of McNeese State University.

HCU stayed close early and trailed by just one point at halftime, 34–33. However, a strong second-half run by New Orleans helped the Privateers pull away and end the Huskies’ season.

New Orleans jumped out to a quick 6–2 lead early in the game, but Houston Christian responded with a strong run. A jumper by Trent Johnson and back-to-back three-pointers from D'Aundre Samuels (No. 5, shown above) helped the Huskies take an 18–14 lead midway through the first half.

The teams traded baskets through the rest of the half. Samuels continued his hot shooting and knocked down his third three-pointer late in the period. Houston Christian stayed within striking distance, and a short jumper by Kylin Green just before halftime cut the deficit to 34–33 at the break.

Houston Christian briefly took the lead early in the second half after a basket by Ryan Bartley. But New Orleans quickly answered with a big scoring run. The Privateers used a 12–0 stretch over three minutes to build a 46–35 lead. That run gave New Orleans control of the game.

The Huskies tried to fight back in the second half. A three-pointer by Samuels and a basket inside from Demarco Bethea  helped trim the lead, but the Privateers kept their advantage in double digits for most of the final period.

Houston Christian made one last push late in the game. A layup by Bethea and a three-pointer by Johnson cut the deficit to 10 points with less than two minutes to play. However, that was as close as the Huskies would get.

Houston Christian shot 50 percent in the first half but cooled off in the second. The Huskies finished the game shooting 40 percent overall, while New Orleans shot 46 percent. The Privateers also controlled the boards, holding a 43–27 rebounding advantage and winning second-chance points 11–0.

Samuels led the Huskies with 20 points while hitting four three-pointers. Green added 13 points and four assists, and Bethea finished with 11 points. Bartley chipped in nine points, four rebounds, and three assists.

New Orleans was led by Jakevion Buckley and Coleton Benson, who each scored 14 points. MJ Thomas recorded a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds.

The loss ended the Huskies’ season with a 12–20 record in their second year under head coach Craig Doty. Meanwhile, New Orleans improved to 15–17 and advanced to the tournament quarterfinals.

HCU Huskies fall to Georgia Southern, 80-62

Photo courtesy of HCU Media Relations Department

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

STATESBORO, GEORGIA  (November 29, 2025) On Saturday, the HCU Huskies fell to Georgia Southern Eagles 80-62 at the Hill Convocation Center. The game stayed close for about 30 minutes, but the Eagles pulled away late.

Early in the game, the Huskies got a strong start. Elijah Brooks (shown left) dunked the ball, and Demarco Bethea added a basket to give HCU a 6-5 lead. Later, Brooks scored again on a fast break, giving the Huskies a 14-12 edge with about 9:43 left in the first half.

But the Eagles fought back. Spudd Webb scored seven straight for Georgia Southern and helped lead a run that put the home team ahead 19-14. By halftime, the Eagles led 34-27.

In the second half, the Huskies tried to climb back in the game. Ryan Bartley hit a three, and Bethea scored inside, cutting the lead. But Georgia Southern kept hitting shots, including several three-pointers, forcing HCU into turnovers, turning those into easy points.

For HCU, Brooks led with 12 points. Bartley and Bethea each added 11. But HCU struggled with shooting, only 41%, and Georgia Southern was sharper, hitting 48% from the field and 40% from three-point range.

The loss drops HCU to 4-3 on the season. The Huskies will return to Texas for their next game on Tuesday against the North Texas Mean Green in Denton.

HCU Huskies outlast The Citadel 72-65

Photo courtesy of HCU Media Relations 

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA (November 26, 2025) The HCU Huskies men's basketball team raced out fast and never let up, beating The Citadel Bulldogs 72–65 on Wednesday night to split the back-to-back series in Charleston. 

The Huskies opened hot. An early three-point play by Kylin Green (shown above right) and quick buckets from Demarco Bethea pushed their lead to 14–5. Moments later, a loud one-handed dunk by Mambourou Mara made it 19–5 with about 12 minutes left in the first half.

The Bulldogs fought back before halftime. Consecutive threes from one of their players and a last-second jumper cut the lead to just 3 by intermission; 35–32.

In the second half, the Huskies built a bigger advantage. A three from Green, a basket by Bethea, and a triple from Trent Johnson pushed the lead to 7. Later, three-pointers from Mara and Elijah Brooks made it a double-digit lead and forced a Citadel timeout.

The Bulldogs came back, tying the game 60–60 with about 5:40 left. But Houston Christian closed strong. Brooks scored inside, Green buried a late three, and Mara added a three-point play after a rebound. A final 12–5 run sealed the win for the Huskies.

On the night, Bethea led HCU with 14 points (perfect shooting), while Green scored 13, Mara had 12, Brooks added 11, and Johnson chipped in 10. All five scored in double digits.

The Huskies now improve to 4–2 on the season. Their five-game road stretch continues Saturday when they take on Georgia Southern Eagles in Georgia.

Texas A&M-Corpus Christi downs HCU Huskies 62-48 in SLC Tourney

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (March 9, 2025) The 2025 Jersey Mike's Southland Conference Basketball Tournament kicked off today at the Legacy Center in Lake Charles, Louisiana. In the opening game, the No. 5 seed Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders secured a decisive 62-48 victory over the No. 8 seed Houston Christian University Huskies.

The Islanders showcased a balanced offense, with multiple players contributing significantly to the scoreboard. Their defense was equally impressive, limiting the Huskies to under 50 points. This win propels the Islanders into the quarterfinals, where they will face the No. 4 seed Northwestern State Demons on Monday, March 10, at 5 p.m.

Northwestern State enters the tournament on a four-game winning streak, reflecting strong late-season form. Head Coach Rick Cabrera expressed confidence in his team's preparation and resilience, emphasizing their readiness for the challenges ahead.

The tournament's top seeds, McNeese State and Lamar University, hold the No. 1 and No. 2 spots, respectively. Both teams have earned double byes, advancing them directly to the semifinals. McNeese State, boasting a 25-6 overall record and a dominant 19-1 conference run, is led by standout guards Javohn Garcia, Sincere Parker, and DJ Richards Jr., all averaging over ten points per game.

Lamar University secured their No. 2 seed with a recent 65-53 victory over Nicholls, showcasing strong performances from players like Alexis Marmolejos and Ja'Sean Jackson.

The tournament continues with the second first-round game tonight at 7:30 p.m., featuring the No. 6 seed Southeastern Louisiana Lions against the No. 7 seed University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals. The winner will advance to face No. 3 seed Nicholls in the quarterfinals.

Fans can anticipate an exciting week of basketball as teams vie for the Southland Conference title and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

HCU Huskies hold off UIW Cardinals for 81-76 win

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.

HCU falls to Northern Arizona in a heartbreaker, 74-71

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 27, 2024)  The Houston Christian University Huskies started strong but couldn’t hold off a second-half comeback by Northern Arizona University (NAU), losing 74-71 on Thanksgiving Eve at Sharp Gymnasium. The Huskies led by two with less than two minutes left, but NAU’s Trenton McLaughlin hit a game-winning three-pointer with two seconds remaining.

HCU came out firing, building a 24-8 lead midway through the first half, thanks to a 15-point burst by Elijah Brooks. Julian Mackey joined in, helping the Huskies stretch their lead to 40-23 at halftime. HCU shot 60% in the first half while holding NAU to just 33%.

The second half, however, belonged to the Lumberjacks. A 17-2 run cut HCU’s lead to 57-53 with 10 minutes left. NAU’s hot shooting continued, and they tied the game late. Mackey’s jumper briefly gave HCU the lead, but McLaughlin’s step-back three sealed the win for NAU.

Despite the loss, Brooks and Mackey had career nights, combining for 57 points. Brooks scored 29 on 13-17 shooting, while Mackey added 28 with eight rebounds.

HCU falls to 2-5 after their third straight close loss. The Huskies will look to bounce back Saturday against UTSA in San Antonio, with tip-off set for 3 p.m.

HCU Huskies fall to Tarleton State despite big night from Tullis

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 26, 2024)  The HCU women's basketball team fought hard but couldn’t hold off a late Tarleton State comeback, dropping a 48-42 decision at Sharp Gymnasium on Tuesday night.

The Huskies (1-4) started strong, holding Tarleton State (3-3) scoreless for most of the first quarter to lead 9-4. The Texans turned the game around with an 11-0 run early in the second, including two three-pointers by Miannah Little. HCU answered with baskets from Tiffany Tullis, Erin Maguire, and Jo Oly, regaining the lead before Tarleton edged ahead 23-21 at halftime.

HCU came out firing in the third quarter, with Kierra Prim scoring six points during a nine-point run. The Huskies led 36-29 heading into the fourth. But Tarleton surged back, scoring seven straight points and holding HCU without a basket for over four minutes.

Despite Tullis’ layup and Oly’s clutch basket in the final minute, the Huskies couldn’t convert their late chances. Tarleton sealed the win with free throws.

Tullis had a standout night, finishing with 10 points and a career-high 20 rebounds, the most by an HCU player since 2016. Oly also posted a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

The Huskies dominated the boards, 40-30, but were hurt by 23 turnovers. HCU will look to bounce back Sunday when they host Southwestern at 3 p.m. in Sharp Gym.

HCU Huskies come up short against Eastern Michigan

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 25, 2024) The Houston Christian University Huskies men's basketball team came close to an incredible comeback but fell just short, losing 74-73 to Eastern Michigan University on Monday night at Sharp Gym.

Down by 16 points with less than nine minutes left, the Huskies caught fire. D’Aundre Samuels led the charge, hitting four three-pointers in four minutes, pulling HCU back into the game. Elijah Brooks gave the Huskies their first lead since the first half with a fast break layup and a free throw, putting them up 68-67 with two minutes left.

But EMU didn’t back down. Da’Sean Nelson and Jalen Terry helped the Eagles regain control, with Terry’s two free throws proving to be the game-winners. HCU had a chance in the final seconds, but Julian Mackey’s last-second three-pointer missed, sealing the Huskies’ fate.

HCU shot an impressive 51% from the field and 45% from beyond the arc. Brooks led the Huskies with 17 points, while Samuels added a season-high 15. Bryson Dawkins and Mackey chipped in 12 and 10 points, respectively.

EMU, now 4-2, was led by Nelson’s 19 points and Terry’s 18. The Eagles shot 57% overall, and their free throws made the difference.

The Huskies, now 2-4, wrap up their homestand on Wednesday night against Northern Arizona University at 7 p.m. at Sharp Gym.

HCU Huskies pull away late to defeat Rockford, 84-64

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 16, 2024)
The Houston Christian University Huskies opened their four-game homestand with a strong 84-64 win over Rockford University on Saturday night at Sharp Gym. The Huskies finished the game on a dominant run, holding the Regents to just 14 points in the final 11 minutes.

HCU jumped out to an early 15-6 lead, highlighted by a three-pointer from Julian Mackey. Rockford responded with a 9-2 run, cutting the lead to 17-15 before the Huskies pushed back. A dunk from Elijah Brooks and a three-pointer by Peyton Rogers helped the Huskies head into halftime with a 44-36 lead.

The Regents fought hard after the break, pulling within three points at 48-45. Rockford stayed close until HCU took control midway through the second half. A 12-4 run sparked by a Porter Bazil three-pointer and seven points from Brooks stretched the lead to double digits. A crowd-pleasing alley-oop from Brooks to Bryson Dawkins sealed the game in the final minutes.

Brooks led all scorers with 21 points, six rebounds, and three assists. Dawkins tied his career-high with 18 points and five rebounds. Rogers added 13 points, including three three-pointers.

The win evened HCU’s record at 2-2. They will look to build momentum when they face cross-town rival Rice University next Friday at 7 p.m. in Sharp Gym.

HCU Huskies win season opener with new head coach Craig Doty

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loco Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 4, 2024) Houston Christian University started its basketball season strong with a big 86-59 win over the Avila (MO) Eagles at Sharp Gymnasium on Monday night. This win also marked a successful debut for HCU’s new head coach, Craig Doty, the ninth head coach in school history, who took over after Coach Ron Cottrell’s 33 years at the helm.

The game didn’t start off smoothly for the Huskies, as they had a slow opening, but they quickly turned things around. Trent Johnson got the scoring started with a three-pointer just 10 seconds in, and soon after, Bryson Dawkins added a driving layup. Midway through the first half, though, Avila closed the gap to just one point, making it 13-12.

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loco Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

The Huskies then found their groove, sparked by plays from Ivan Reynolds and Julian Mackey. A 24-8 run helped HCU finish the half with a comfortable 37-20 lead. They carried that momentum into the second half, extending their lead with strong performances from Dawkins, who scored eight points in two minutes, and Demari Williams (shown above), who added two back-to-back dunks.

HCU’s defense held Avila to just 39.3% shooting, and their offense fired with contributions from players across the roster. Dawkins led with 18 points, while Williams and Mackey chipped in with 11 each, and Bazil added 10. Overall, four Huskies scored in double figures, showcasing the team’s balanced approach.

With a 1-0 record, the Huskies now prepare for a challenging road trip. They will face No. 19 Texas in Austin on Friday and then travel to play No. 15 Creighton next Wednesday. HCU will be back at home on November 16 to host Rockford University.

HCU names Craig Doty as men's head basketball coach

Photo courtesy of HCU Media Relations Department 

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 15, 2024) Craig Doty (shown above), a highly accomplished coach with a history of success, has been appointed as the new head coach for the men's basketball program at Houston Christian University. Doty's hiring was announced by HCU President Dr. Robert B. Sloan and Director of Athletics Steve Moniaci, who expressed their enthusiasm for the new addition to the coaching staff.

Doty brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the role, having previously coached at Emporia State, where he achieved remarkable results. Under his leadership, the Emporia State Hornets experienced their best season in program history, boasting a 23-9 record. Doty's coaching prowess was evident as he guided the team to back-to-back 20+ win seasons, securing their first-ever NCAA Tournament win along the way.

Not only did Doty prioritize success on the court, but he also emphasized the importance of academic achievement and community involvement. During his tenure at Emporia State, the team's GPA improved significantly, with players consistently achieving above a 3.0 GPA. Additionally, the team ranked first in NCAA Division II men's basketball for service hours, highlighting their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the court.

In his previous coaching stints at Graceland University and Rock Valley College, Doty also left an indelible mark, leading both teams to national championships and earning numerous coaching accolades along the way.

Dominant performance propels HCU to 80-46 victory over Mount St. Joseph

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography 
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 22, 2023) In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the HCU Huskies women's basketball team triumphed over the Mount St. Joseph Lions with a resounding 80-46 victory in a non-conference matchup at Sharp Gym on Wednesday evening.

Right from the opening tip-off, the Huskies (2-4) asserted their dominance, seizing a quick 4-0 lead with Jo Oly contributing two early baskets. As the first quarter progressed, HCU continued to widen the gap, reaching an impressive 25-10 advantage by the end of the period. Enya Maguire and Kennedy Wilson played pivotal roles in this early surge, combining for 21 points.

By halftime, the Huskies had built a substantial 45-24 lead, with Maguire showcasing her sharpshooting skills, going 4-of-4 from the field for 11 points. Wilson contributed 10 points and an impressive five steals, setting the tone for HCU's defensive prowess.

Despite a brief challenge from Mount St. Joseph in the third quarter, the Huskies responded emphatically with a 25-0 run, keeping the Lions scoreless for nearly nine minutes. N'Denasija Collins led all players with 17 points, supported by Wilson's 16 points and Maguire's 14, including four three-pointers.

The statistics reflect the Huskies' dominance on the court, shooting 60 percent as a team, controlling the boards with a 37-20 advantage, and forcing 21 turnovers. The team's balanced offense, efficient shooting, and solid defense proved too much for the Lions to handle.

Looking ahead, HCU is set to continue their home stand with a game against Howard Payne on Monday, November 27, at 6:00 p.m. inside Sharp Gym. 

HCU Huskies comeback bid falls short in 89-87 loss to UTSA

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 20, 2023) In a thrilling matchup at Sharp Gym on Monday night, the HCU Huskies fought valiantly but ultimately fell short in an 89-87 loss to the University of Texas at San Antonio. The game was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with the Huskies battling from an 11-point deficit in the second half.

The game kicked off with the skills of Bonke Maring and Marcus Greene ,who led the charge for HCU, scoring 11 consecutive points, including three from long range. 

Undeterred, the Huskies began to chip away at the lead, thanks in part to Michael Imariagbe's contributions. Imariagbe's inside presence helped bring the deficit under double-digits, and his efforts, along with key plays from Jay Alvarez and Bonke Maring, brought HCU within one point at halftime, trailing 47-46.

The second half saw UTSA extending their lead to double-digits, but the resilient Huskies fought back, showcasing their determination. Jay Alvarez's driving layup and a dunk from Bonke Maring kept the game competitive, but UTSA's Trey Edmonds dunk and Isaiah Wyatt's bucket maintained their lead.

HCU launched a final push in the closing minutes, with Jay Alvarez making crucial plays and Pierce Bazil sinking two free throws to cut the deficit. However, UTSA held on, securing the 89-87 victory.

Despite the loss, HCU's Marcus Greene led the team with 23 points, while Jay Alvarez contributed 19 points. Michael Imariagbe posted a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing his versatility.

The Huskies, now 0-3 on the season, look to bounce back as they leave home on a three-game road stretch. Their next matchup is a Friday clash against Oklahoma State in Stillwater, followed by a game against TCU in Fort Worth next Monday.

HCU Huskies overcome Texas A&M-Corpus Christi 90-78

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (January 21, 2023) Using the combination of three-pointers and five players scoring in double digits, the HCU Huskies cruised to a 90-78 win over the Islanders of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. The victory pushed the Huskies to a  4-3 record in the Southland Conference, along with three other conference programs.

Those Huskies scoring in double digits: Maks Klanjscek (20),  Bonke Maring (16), Pierce Bazil (15),  Sam Hofman (14), and Brycen Long (11) accounted for 76 of HVU's 90 points. Klanjscek and Maring each pulled down six rebounds, to lead the Huskies, with Hofman adding five. HCU shot 53 percent from the field, 76 percent from the free throw line, and 50 percent from three-point range. 

Terrion Murdix had 17 for the Islanders and Ross Williams finished with 13. TAMUCC shot just 37.1 percent (23-of-62) from the field and 29.6 percent (8-of-27) from three. The Islanders were solid from the line, making 24-of-29 (82.8 percent).

Next up for the Huskies is a matchup against Northwestern State on Thursday, January 26, and Texas A&M-Commerce in Commerce, Texas on Saturday, January 28.

HCU falls to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi 57-42 in women's basketball action

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (January 21, 2023) The HCU Huskies dropped a 57-42 decision to the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders (11-7, 6-1 SLC) at Sharp Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon.  The Huskies (8-10) were leading by a slight margin (three points) after three quarters of play, but could not match the offensive punch of the Islanders in the fourth quarter; being outscored 24-6.

N'Denasija Harris lead the HCU scoring with 17 points followed by Abbey Southland, Marilyn Nzoiwu, and  Kennedy Wilson with six points each. Wilson also led the Huskies with seven rebounds. For the Islanders, Alecia Westbrook tallied 13 points and 13 rebounds for her ninth double-double of the season. She has achieved six of her double-doubles in conference games this season. In addition, it was the senior's 27th double-double of her career.

HCU lost two-of-three meetings against the Islanders in 2021-22 season. The teams squared off in non-conference play where Corpus won, before splitting the conference series. Overall the Huskies are 8-13 against the Islanders dating back to 2011. In the lone Huskies win of last season, Nzoiwu posted a 13-point 13-rebound double-double. Wilson also dropped 12 points in the win. 

In other Southland Conference women's action on Saturday, Southeastern (10-7) defeated Texas A&M-Commerce (6-11) by the score of 46-42 while McNeese (7-11) outlasted Nicholls (4-14) 70-62.

HCU Huskies fall to UT-Rio Grande Valley on Saturday night

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly       
Copyright 2022 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (December 10, 2022) HCU Huskies guard Bryson Long connected for three points to tie the score at six at the 17:25 mark of the first quarter. After that, the UT-Rio Grande Vaqueros hit the gas and proceeded to their 95-82 win over the Huskies at Sharp Gymnasium on Saturday night.

The Huskies got within eight points of the Vaqueros with 52 seconds remaining in the first half, but never got any closer; with UTRGV leading by 24 points early in the second half. The loss was the eighth for the Huskies in 2022 and set up a rematch against the Vaqueros on Sunday, December 18 on Padre Island.

Brycen Long (Gilbert HS, Gilbert, Arizona) led the Huskies with 26 points, his second highest scoring performance of the season. The starting guard was followed by Bonke Maring (Cypress Springs HS, Cypress, Texas) with 18 and Andrew King (Bella Vista Prep, Phoenix, Arizona) with 14. 

UTRGV (6-4) tallied four players in double-digits with Will Johnston (The King's School, Sydney NSW, Australia) leading the way with 28 points. Dima Zdor (Saint James School, Yalta, Crimea, Ukraine) posted 11 rebounds; the most of the entire match.

Shooting and rebounding is what contributed to the Vaqueros win, as they outshot the Huskies from the field (56% to 44%), three-point shooting (47% to 34%) and in total rebounds (44 to 28). The Huskies carried a slight edge in free throws (76% to 62%).

HCU Huskies down St. Thomas Celts 68-43

Story and video by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2022 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (December 10, 2022) The HCU Huskies had four players score in double-digits in route to a 68-43 win over the St. Thomas Celts at Sharp Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon.

The Huskies led the game the entire 40 minutes, with their largest lead being 25 points at the 8:15 mark of the fourth quarter. Graduate student Julija Vujakovic (Lycee des Garcons du Luxembourg, Bereldange, Luxembourg) led the scoring with 18 points in 35:07 of playing time. She was aided by N'Desasija Collins (Timberview HS, Mansfield, TX) who added 11 points. Sisters Enya and Erin Maguire, who played their prep ball at The Hun School in New Jersey and hail from Belfast Northern Ireland, each chipped in 10 points for the Huskies. Marilyn Nzoiwu (Cedar Ridge HS, Round Rock, TX) led the Huskies in rebounds with nine.

For the Celts, starting guard Hayden Morin (Atascocita HS, Humble, TX) put 11 points on the scoreboard followed by Alilyah Macias (Lutheran North HS, Houston, TX) with nine. Jeci Gonzalez (Kempner HS, Houston TX) came of the bench to pull down five rebounds.

The win pushed the Huskies to a 5-4 record before hitting the road to take on Texas State on December 20 and the No. 19 Texas Longhorns on December 21. They will close out 2022 with a New Year's Eve matchup against New Orleans to begin Southland Conference play.

St. Thomas will next face New Orleans on December 12 on the road.