Last night, the Tarleton State University Texan basketball went up against the Angelo State University Rams for the fourth time this season. This was the second year in a row the Texans and Rams met up for the NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen. Despite a game of seemingly one-sided calls in favor of the Rams, the Texans defeated the Rams, 77-72.

The game began with both teams making it clear that this game would not be a walk in the park. Pressure was put on Michael Hardge, who got into foul trouble early, along with Romond Jenkins. They went into halftime tied up, 38-38.

The Texans returned to the second half with a score to settle. They had to prove how much they could do with limited minutes from Hardge, who had four personal fouls midway through the second half. An offensive push from Jenkins and a clutch three pointer from Chantz Chambers extended the Texan’s lead

In the late minutes, the Rams came within three of the Texans with a series of three pointers, but late free throws made by Chambers and EJ Reed sealed the deal for the Texans, 77-72.

The entire starting five for the Texans scored double figures: Reed (13), Hamilton (17) Chambers (13), Hardge, (16) and Jenkins (10). Hardge, Hamilton and Jenkins were named All-tournament players, along with two other Angelo State players. Jenkins was named tournament MVP.

Next, the Texans head to the Dr. Pepper Arena in Frisco, TX for an Elite Eight matchup against Augustana University (S.D.) at 6 p.m.