a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; }

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The University of the Southwest men's basketball battled on the boards and saw several strong individual performances, but a relentless Xavier (LA) attack proved too much as the Mustangs fell 101–66 on Thursday night. 

Southwest struck first and held an early 3–0 lead behind Jalen Williams, who opened the scoring with a layup and free throw. Xavier quickly responded, capitalizing on Mustang turnovers to build momentum throughout the first half. Despite the pressure, Southwest remained within reach at halftime, trailing 46–36 thanks to timely scoring from Williams, Connor Moody, Kevin Boone, and Rylan Laboca. 

The Mustangs dominated the glass, outrebounding Xavier 52–39, including 16 offensive rebounds that extended possessions and helped keep the game competitive through the first 20 minutes. Steven Masini and Moody combined for 16 rebounds, providing stability in the paint.

Williams led all Southwest scorers with 17 points, going 5-of-9 from the floor and 3-of-6 from beyond the arc. Boone added 11 points off the bench, while Moody and Laboca chipped in 9 points each, with Laboca collecting a team-high 8 rebounds. Masini finished with 9 rebounds and 5 points, contributing on both ends of the court.

Turnovers ultimately proved decisive. Southwest committed 34 turnovers, which Xavier converted into 53 points, creating an early second-half lead. The Mustangs, however, continued to show discipline at the free-throw line, shooting 80% (20-of-25).

Xavier (LA) was paced by a hot offensive performance, shooting 48.2% from the field and 50% in the second half, using their speed and pressure defense to generate transition points and extend the lead.

Despite the final margin, the Mustangs fought until the final whistle, getting late-game scoring from Noah Washington, Boone, and Luke Cornette, who knocked down four free throws in the closing seconds. 

Southwest moves forward as it prepares for its next road contest on Saturday.

-END-