(Story Courtesy of St. Thomas Sports Information Department)
BELTON, Texas -- St. Thomas opened up the NCAA Tournament against the East Texas Baptist University Tigers this Friday Night. Throughout the course of the game, the Celts kept it close but were edged by the Tigers 79-75.
In the first half, it seemed that the Tigers took control from the opening tip. Since they scored the game's first points, they never let the Celts lead. ETBU also was impressive on the offensive and defensive end, making 54% of their shots and limiting UST to 33%. They also overpowered the Celts with fast breaks, notching four in the opening 20 minutes. However, St. Thomas was able to draw 10 Tiger fouls and add 12 points from the line. When the clock hit zero, even with the shooting woes, the Celts were down just 10, 40-30 with 20 minutes left to play.
To start the second period, St. Thomas came out storming, and even though the Tigers added points, the Celts cut the deficit in half 46-41. However, the Tigers went on 12-7 run to regain the lead. With 7:18 left to play, the game seemingly reset as both teams began to trade baskets back and forth. Then with 1:30 in the game, the Tigers fouled Angel Johnson and it was costly, making the score 69-66. Then, Freddie Ricks III and Zack Golaszewski made two quick buckets to keep things close, but early shooting woes proved costly as ETBU won 79-75.
Andrew Adebo had a double-double this game with 17 points and 14 rebounds. Scoring-wise, Calvin Williams IV led with 24 points in the game. Johnson also dished out the team-high four assists.
Men's Basketball made history this season by qualifying for the NCAA tournament in their first year of Division III play. Although the season is over with this loss, the future is bright for the Celts as key additions helped propel the offensive and defensive end. Thank you to this year's senior class for being part of the transition to NCAA, and we are grateful for your efforts.
