San Antonio, Texas - Western New Mexico University's men's basketball team battled hard but couldn't keep pace with St. Mary's, falling 67-50 in their latest matchup. Despite a strong first half, the Mustangs were unable to overcome a slow second-half shooting performance, allowing the Rattlers to pull away late.

Nathan Jones (Leicester, United Kingdom/) led the Mustangs with 13 points, shooting an efficient 6-of-7 from the field, while Isaiah Marin (Phoenix, AZ/Copper Canyon High School) contributed 10 points and 4 rebounds. Carson Kelly (Chandler, AZ/Chandler High School) added 8 points, including 1-of-3 from beyond the arc, and led the team with 5 assists. Aiden Wall (North Richland Hills, TX/Keller Central High School) and Yves Nkomba (Leeds, United Kingdom/Elevation Preparatory Academy) each grabbed 5 rebounds.

In the first half, Western New Mexico shot 45.8% (11-24) from the field, including 20.0% (1-5) from three-point range. They were efficient from the free-throw line, converting 87.5% (7-8) of their attempts. Despite St. Mary's shooting 48.5% (16-33) in the first half, the Mustangs were within reach at halftime, trailing by just 10 points, 38-28.

In the second half, the Mustangs' shooting cooled off to 36.8% (7-19) from the field and 25.0% (2-8) from beyond the arc. While St. Mary's also struggled from the floor, shooting just 31.3% (10-32), their defense held strong and allowed them to maintain control of the game. The Rattlers finished the game with 50.0% shooting from the free-throw line (10-20), just edging the Mustangs' 50.0% (4-8).

The Mustangs visit St. Edward's University, in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. MST.

This game recap is presented by First American Bank. First American Bank is a proud supporter of WNMU Athletics!​

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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube & Instagram).