AUSTIN, TX. — Western New Mexico University (6-2, 1-1 Lone Star) secured a clutch victory over St. Edward's University (10-1, 1-1 Lone Star), 87-84, on Saturday at the Recreation and Athletics Center. The Mustangs capitalized on their free-throw opportunities, converting 19 of 27 attempts, to edge past the Hilltoppers in the tightly contested matchup.

The first half opened with the Mustangs overcoming an early deficit, sparked by Keylon Dorsey's (Houston, TX/Eisenhower High School) three pointers, reducing the Hilltoppers' lead to 8-6. Carson Kelly's (Chandler, AZ/Chandler High School) steady shooting, including a three-pointer at 7:37, helped Western New Mexico gain a slight edge. The teams exchanged leads frequently, with Isaiah Broady (Chandler, AZ/Arizona Compass Prep) contributing crucial points in the paint to maintain the momentum.

As the half progressed, Quincy Adams' (Frisco, TX/Hamilton High School) free throws at the 31-second mark pushed the Mustangs ahead. Defensive rebounds by Andre Harris (Mesa, AZ/Hillcrest Prep) kept the Hilltoppers from closing the gap further. The half concluded with Western New Mexico holding a narrow 44-42 advantage.

Western New Mexico began the second half with a challenging stretch, falling behind as St. Edward's capitalized on early turnovers to build a lead. Dorsey and Adams helped stabilize the Mustangs with successful free throws and fast-break points, closing the gap.

As the half progressed, Harris and Cortaviaus Seales (Rock Island, IL/North Scott High School) contributed crucial layups, while Tanner Poeschl's (Fountain Hills, AZ/Skyline High School) presence on the glass maintained offensive momentum. The Mustangs rallied, with Nolan Brown's late 3-pointer tying the game, and Seales' free throws eventually pushed them ahead.

In the final minutes, the Mustangs secured the lead, with key defensive stops and timely scoring from Seales and Dorsey. Despite a late 3-pointer from Jamison Kay of St. Edward's, Western New Mexico maintained composure, finishing the half ahead with a narrow 87-84 victory.

Head Coach Mark Bunker on the win: "It definitely was a great win for our program. Anytime that you can come away with a win against a ranked team that was undefeated it definitely feels great." He added:  "The bench stepped up a ton tonight, especially on the defensive end. We knew we could find some success on the offensive end, but we just weren't getting stops. From top to bottom, we got tougher and communication was key to finding a way to win. Very proud of all the guys' effort."

Seales led the way with 16 points and dished out five assists, providing a strong offensive presence. Harris recorded a double-double, scoring 13 points and collecting 11 rebounds while also contributing five assists. Kelly added 13 points and made two steals, enhancing the team's defensive efforts. Dorsey contributed 10 points, bolstered by two 3-pointers, to round out the top performers.

Western New Mexico holds a 6-2 overall record and is 1-1 in Lone Star Conference play with a narrow loss against #9 St. Mary's and a victory against #11 St. Edwards.

In their next game, Western New Mexico will travel to face Northwest Nazarene University on Monday, Dec. 15, in Nampa, Idaho. The contest is set to tip off at 7 p.m. MT.

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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 (X, TikTok & Instagram).