CEDAR HILL, Texas – The University of the Southwest came up just short in a hard-fought contest against UNT Dallas, dropping an 87–81 decision in overtime on Saturday afternoon. Despite shooting an impressive 54.2% from the field and knocking down 47.4% from three-point range, the Mustangs were unable to finish the job.
Southwest led by as many as 10 points in the first half, fueled by a dominant start from EJay Scroggins, who finished with a game-high 33 points on 14-of-20 shooting, including three triples. Scroggins also added five rebounds, three assists, and three steals in 39 minutes of action.
Jalen Williams provided a strong secondary scoring punch with 16 points, hitting 3-of-4 from beyond the arc and grabbing five boards. Donovan Holcombe chipped in 10 points and five rebounds, while Kevin Boone added seven points and a key three-pointer early in the second half.
Southwest controlled the pace offensively, shooting 63.6% in the second half and hitting five of seven threes after the break. However, the team struggled at the free-throw line, converting just 8 of 16 attempts (50%), and committed 27 turnovers, which UNT Dallas turned into 26 points.
The game featured 14 ties and 11 lead changes, with Southwest forcing overtime thanks to Scroggins' clutch three-pointer in the final seconds of regulation. In the extra period, UNT Dallas capitalized at the stripe, going 6-of-10 from the line, while Southwest managed only seven points.
Despite the setback, Southwest showed resilience and offensive efficiency, outshooting UNT Dallas from the field and from deep. The hosts, however, dominated the glass (40–34) and lived at the free-throw line, making 32-of-45 attempts.
Southwest (3–4, 0–1) will look to bounce back in its next matchup as conference play continues.
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