In an exciting showdown at the Pete P. Gallego Center, the Sul Ross State men’s basketball team secured a thrilling victory over the Oklahoma Panhandle State University Aggies with a final score of 60-55. The Lobos, now off to their first 2-0 start since the 2017-2018 season, displayed tenacity and teamwork, thrilling their home crowd with a hard-fought win.
The game, marked by 11 lead changes, was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams. Oklahoma Panhandle State took an early 5-0 lead, but the Lobos quickly responded with a 6-0 run that began with a layup by Bryce Harris. The Aggies countered with a 6-0 run of their own, taking a five-point lead. Trey Nelson’s two made free throws narrowed the gap, but Oklahoma Panhandle responded with a three-pointer.
Gabe Sanchez and the Lobos didn’t back down, launching another 6-0 run to regain a one-point lead. The game continued to ebb and flow, with five lead changes in the final five minutes of the first half. Manny Flores knocked down a jumper in the paint with 11 seconds left, giving the Lobos a one-point lead at halftime.
The Aggies came out strong in the second half, tying the game at 27-all. But it was Trey Nelson who proved to be the difference-maker, sinking a crucial three-pointer. Gabe Sanchez added to the momentum with another shot from beyond the arc, extending Sul Ross State’s lead to five.
As the clock ticked down, Oklahoma Panhandle State made a valiant effort to claw back, coming within one point with 6:30 remaining. They even took a one-point lead on a made layup. However, the Lobos’ resilience shone through as Tyler Jackson secured a three-point play after being fouled on a made shot in the paint, giving Sul Ross State a two-point advantage. The game was tied one more time, but the Lobos ultimately pulled ahead by five to secure the win.
Trey Nelson led the way for Sul Ross State with 18 points, four rebounds, and two assists, while making an impressive 11 of 13 free throws. Gabe Sanchez also made a significant contribution, scoring 15 points and sinking three three-pointers. Deveraux Minix and Omar Ibarra played crucial roles in the team’s rebounding efforts, with Minix grabbing a team-best eight rebounds, seven on the defensive end, and Ibarra adding six rebounds and three assists.
The battle on the boards was fierce, with the Aggies narrowly outrebounding Sul Ross State 36 to 35. The Lobos demonstrated their composure at the free-throw line, finishing 16 of 20. Hayden Peterson and Cailean Ables showcased their defensive prowess with a combined five steals.
Head coach Xavier Webb expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing their focus on defense and execution. Trey Nelson echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of defense in securing the victory. Gabe Sanchez praised the team’s culture and competitiveness, underscoring the positive changes that have taken place.
With this impressive victory, Sul Ross State extends its record to 2-0, marking their best start in several years. The Lobos are determined to build on this success as they continue their journey in the 2023 season.
