Eagles Fall Short Against Nationally Ranked LSUA in RRAC Semifinals, 81-65

ALEXANDRIA, La. — Texas A&M University-Texarkana men's basketball kept things close early but struggled in the second half, falling to LSU-Alexandria 81-65 in the Red River Athletic Conference semifinals Saturday afternoon at Laborde Earles Coliseum.

The Eagles trailed by just three at halftime but shot only 34.5% from the field for the game, including 4-for-20 from three-point range (20%). The Generals took control after the break, dominating the rebounding battle 50-25 and outscoring TAMUT 46-33 in the second half.

Texas A&M-Texarkana opened the game with energy, attacking the paint early and forcing turnovers. The Eagles outscored LSUA 18-7 in points off turnovers, capitalizing on early mistakes.

Daryl Houston was active inside, scoring six first-half points and grabbing five rebounds. Rodney Mason II added five points before halftime, but the Eagles struggled with outside shooting, hitting just 22.2% (2-for-9) from three-point range.

LSUA responded with a strong finish to the half. Kashie Natt, who led all scorers with 24 points, fueled a 10-3 run in the final minutes, giving the Generals a 35-32 halftime lead.

TAMUT also faced foul trouble early, committing three technical fouls, which allowed LSUA to gain momentum at the free-throw line. The Generals went 12-for-17 (70.6%) on free throws in the opening half.

The Eagles' offense faltered in the second half as they struggled to find quality looks against LSUA's defense. TAMUT shot just 26.7% (8-for-30) from the field after halftime, while LSUA found its rhythm, improving to 48% shooting (12-for-25) in the second half.

Deovaunta Williams provided a spark off the bench, leading TAMUT with 15 points and hitting a three-pointer to cut the deficit to five early in the half. However, LSUA responded with a 14-2 run, extending its lead to double digits.

TAMUT fought to stay in the game behind free throws from Houston and Williams, but LSUA's depth proved too much. The Generals' bench outscored TAMUT's 29-27, and Xavier Smith added 10 points and eight rebounds to help seal the win.

Foul trouble also hampered the Eagles, who committed 31 total fouls, leading to 49 free-throw attempts for LSUA.

Texas A&M-Texarkana's season ends with a 20-win campaign, and an overall record of 20-10, and 16-8 in RRAC play.