Laredo, TX - Texas A&M-Kingsville could not keep up with Texas A&M-International at the TAMIU Kinesiology and Convocation Building as it fell, 61-74, on Saturday.
The Javelinas (7-9, 4-4 LSC) shot just 40 percent from the floor and made just five three pointers as they fell in their third consecutive conference contest. Meanwhile, The Dustdevils (7-10, 4-5 LSC) made 12 three-pointers while shooting 45.6 percent from the floor and holding the lead for 93 percent of the contest.
The three-point baskets by the Dustdevils came at inopportune times for the Javelinas as well. Every time the Javelinas would bring the game within striking distance, Texas A&M-International would hit a three-pointer to bring the lead back to a multi-possession lead for themselves. This trend would become apparent starting late in the first half, when
Bryson Goldsmith hit a big three-pointer to cut the lead to just three points. The Dustdevils would instantly respond with a three-pointer and a layup that brought the lead back to nine as both teams went into the halftime break.
As the second half got underway, the Javelinas got to work cutting into the 12-point lead the Dustdevils had at halftime. A
Nate Garcia jump-shot cut the lead back down to six for the Javelinas with 15:07 left in the half, but the Dustdevils nailed a three-pointer to bring their lead back up to nine. A pair of free-throws from
James Livingston would bring the lead back down to six with 13:54 minutes left, but another timely three would once again bring it back up to a nine-point lead.
From there, Texas A&M-International wrestled complete control away from the Javelinas, building up a big enough double-digit lead to put the game away. The Javelinas fought to get themselves back into the game, it would not be enough however as the Javelinas could not complete the big comeback.
Garcia and Goldsmith both finished in double-figures with 10 points each, while Livingston added in nine. Garcia would finish with a team-high six rebounds while
Jadon Sautter would get five boards himself.
David Oriaku would have a nice game as well, finishing with eight points and two blocks.
Texas A&M-Kingsville continues their road trip as they take on Angelo State Wednesday at 7:00 pm. Fans of the Javelinas can watch the game on FloCollege or follow the game at JavelinaMBB on X.
