SHERMAN, Texas - Southwestern took a nine point lead into halftime, but two big runs in the second half by Austin College dashed the Pirates' hopes of making the postseason as they defeated SU 83-73 on Friday night.

After the fourth tie of the game at the 14 minute mark of the first half Southwestern went on an 8-0 run over the next two minutes to lead 18-10 with 12:06 to go in the opening frame. Austin College pulled within two points, 28-26, with six and a half remaining, but Southwestern pushed back and maintained the lead, taking a nine point advantage, 47-38, into the break.

Following halftime Southwestern scored the first points of the half to push the Pirate lead to 11, but Austin College quickly tied the game at 50 with a 12-1 run to the 13 minute mark of the second half. SU briefly took the lead back from the free throw line, but again went cold from the field while the 'Roos got hot and led by 13, 70-57, after a 17-4 run.

Demetrice Spearman's three pointer with four and a half minutes remaining pulled the Pirates within eight, 73-65, but that is as close as Southwestern would get as the clock ticked towards the final.

Southwestern shot 43.9% from the floor, 30.6% from three point range, and was led by Logan Hurley's 15 points. Austin College shot 52.8% from the floor and was held to 11.1% from three point range. Walter Phillips led for the 'Roos with 19 points and 10 rebounds off the bench.

The Pirates remain on the road for the final game of the season as they face the University of Dallas on Saturday at 8:00 pm.