HOUSTON, TX--   St. Thomas returned to action Saturday and delivered a high-intensity performance, taking down former SCAC opponent Trinity in a 66–53 victory. In a matchup that felt every bit like a rivalry, both teams brought energy early. The Celts took the win and are 6-1 on the season.

The first half opened at a fast pace, with both teams trading baskets in a high-intensity stretch that featured multiple ties and lead changes between 11 and 17 points. The Celts created some separation when Garrett Rodgers knocked down a jumper in the paint to give UST a 25–21 advantage. However, Trinity responded from behind the arc, reclaiming the lead before St. Thomas tied it again at 27. In the final seconds of the half, a buzzer-beater three from the Tigers sent UST into the break trailing 32–29.

In the second half, the Celts came out energized and quickly shifted momentum. A strong layup in the paint by Reyce Allen put UST back in front at 40–36, and shortly after, a jumper from Brennan Webb extended the lead to 50–45. St. Thomas continued to pull away as Allen and Nathan Kongolo connected on key jumpers, building the cushion to 60–51. In the final moments, Kongolo sealed the win with a dunk in the paint to close out the 66–53 victory.

Allen Reyce posted 15 points to lead the way while adding 6 rebounds and 3 steals. Nathan Kongolo also finished with 15 points on 6-of-12 shooting, along with 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals. Brennan Webb contributed 10 points on 4-of-9 shooting and pulled down 4 rebounds to round out the scoring leaders.

Up Next
The Celts head to Colorado for their first conference matchup, taking place December 13 at 2 PM Central. Fans can follow updates at ustcelts.com and on Instagram at @ustmbasketball.