HOUSTON, TX – The University of St. Thomas men's basketball team returned to their home court at the Jerabeck Activity and Athletic Center, facing fellow Division III opponent Hardin-Simmons University. In a thrilling match-up that came down to overtime, as the Celts delivered another comeback performance, securing an exciting 80-74 victory.

St. Thomas set the tone early as the Celts won the opening tip and immediately scored with a layup from Reyce Allen assisted by Angel Johnson. Moments later, Corey Thompson knocked down a three-pointer to give UST an early 5–3 lead. Midway through the half, momentum stayed on UST's side as Nathan Kongolo added a jumper and a three-pointer off another assist from Johnson, extending the advantage to 14–6. The Celts kept applying pressure with scoring contributions from Jaden Ross, including a jumper and back-to-back three-pointers, paired with two made free throws from Nicholas Buffalo to build a commanding 24–6 lead. Hardin-Simmons pushed back with a run to close the gap to 26–17, but another three made by Thompson steadied UST. After a final Cowboy free throw, the Celts entered halftime ahead 31–26.

Corey Thompson opened the half with a fast-break dunk to spark the Celts, but Hardin-Simmons responded by narrowing the score to 38–35. Thompson answered again with consecutive three-pointers, pushing the lead back to 44–35. As the half progressed, both teams traded baskets. The Cowboys lassoed back points to earn 52–50, but Jaden Ross ignited UST earning 14 points from deep three's, multiple jumpers and a free throw to help maintain a 68–63 lead with three minutes left. Hardin-Simmons, however, rallied in the final possessions and tied the game 68–68, sending the teams into overtime.

Hardin-Simmons scored first to take a 70–68 lead, but Angel Johnson responded with a jumper and a free throw to swing the advantage back to UST. Defensive stops on both ends kept the score tight until the final minute, when Corey Thompson drilled a clutch three-pointer to extend the lead to 74–70. The Celts carried that momentum as Reyce Allen powered through the paint for a layup and then delivered a strong dunk to make it 78–70. Leaving Nicholas Buffalo to seal the win with two crucial free throws and seven seconds remaining, securing the 80–74 overtime victory.

Jaden Ross led all scorers with 24 points, with a perfect 3-for-3 from the free-throw line. Corey Thompson added 21 points along with six rebounds and three steals, and Reyce Allen earning 10 points and four rebounds. Following close behind, Nathan Kongolo contributed his assistance and 10 points also, on 4-of-8 shooting to round out a balanced UST performance.

Up Next:
The Celts remain at home as they prepare for their next match-up against University of Mary Hardin-Baylor this Saturday, November 29th @5 PM. Fans can follow updates at ustcelts.com and on Instagram at @ustmbasketball.