MARSHALL, Texas – The University of St. Thomas men's basketball team continued its strong start to the season, defeating East Texas Baptist University 72-64 on the road to move to 2-0.

The first half started as a back-and-forth contest between the Celts and the Tigers, with both sides trading baskets early to make it 12-12. A jumper from Jaden Ross sparked energy and momentum for St. Thomas, helping the team take control. Moments later, a mid-range jumper from Omar Gayle extended the lead to 23-17. ETBU responded with a few three-pointers and free throws to regain momentum, but with seven minutes left, Ross threw down a fastbreak dunk to make it 25-22. The Tigers battled back and briefly reclaimed the lead, but St. Thomas closed the half on an 8-0 run to take a 41-31 advantage into the break.

In the second half, the Celts continued their rhythm as Angel Johnson connected on a jumper and layup, followed by back-to-back three-pointers from Corey Thompson to push the lead to 54-40. ETBU refused to back down, chipping away to make it 60-53 with seven minutes remaining. The Tigers closed the gap to four points late, but consecutive fastbreak layups from Thompson and key free throws by Johnson sealed the 72-64 victory for St. Thomas.

Corey Thompson led the Celts with 22 points, going 4-for-8 from beyond the arc and adding six steals. Angel Johnson contributed 11 points, six rebounds, and five assists, while Nicholas Buffalo added eight points on 3-for-6 shooting along with two steals.

Up Next
The Celts will hit the road again as they travel to St. Louis, Missouri, to compete in the Lopata Classic at WashU. St. Thomas will face the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater on Thursday, November 14, at 1 p.m.