Western New Mexico University's men's basketball team was narrowly defeated by St. Mary's University, 80-76, in a Lone Star Conference matchup on Thursday night at Bill Greehey Arena in San Antonio. The Mustangs held a seven-point lead at halftime but were unable to maintain their advantage as the Rattlers came back strong in the second half.
The game began with Western New Mexico taking an early lead, thanks to Cortaviaus Seales who scored the opening points with a tip-in and a layup. Defensive efforts from Andre Harris helped keep the Mustangs ahead during much of the first half. Carson Kelly's three-pointer just before halftime extended Western New Mexico's lead to 41-34.
In the second half, Keylon Dorsey hit a three-pointer that briefly put the Mustangs back in front. However, St. Mary's responded quickly and took control through fast-break opportunities. In the closing minute, Seales scored on a layup and converted a free throw to reduce the deficit to three points. Despite another late three-pointer by Dorsey, Western New Mexico could not overcome St. Mary's and lost by four points.
Seales led all Mustang scorers with 20 points, shooting 7-for-14 from the field and making six of eight free throws. He also added six rebounds and three steals. Kelly contributed 13 points and five assists, while Dorsey finished with 13 points and two steals. Harris posted 13 points along with eight rebounds and two blocks before fouling out.
Western New Mexico now holds a record of 5-2 overall and is 0-1 in conference play, while St. Mary’s remains undefeated at 6-0 overall (1-0 LSC). The Mustangs will travel next to face St. Edward's University on Saturday, December 6 at St. Edwards Recreation and Athletic Center in Austin, Texas.
Western New Mexico University competes as part of NCAA Division II within the Lone Star Conference.
For more information about Mustang Athletics visit www.wnmumustangs.com or follow @WNMUathletics on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, or Instagram.
