MAGNOLIA, Ark. – The Southern Arkansas University Muleriders (7-12, 4-9 GAC) fell tonight to the Southern Nazarene University Crimson Storm (14-4, 9-4 GAC) by a final score of 51-66.
 
Southern Arkansas set the tone early by matching Southern Nazarene's intensity from the opening tip, trading baskets through the first several minutes of action. Jair Horton got the Muleriders on the board early and continued to provide an offensive spark as SAU worked to establish rhythm on both ends of the floor. The game remained tight throughout the half, with SAU responding to each Southern Nazarene push with timely shots and defensive stops. As the clock wound down, Southern Nazarene was able to put together a brief run, but the Muleriders stayed composed and limited the damage, heading into the locker room trailing by just three, 29-26, with the game well within reach.
 
Coming out of halftime, SAU looked to swing momentum back in its favor, opening the second half with increased defensive pressure and a renewed emphasis on attacking the basket. The Muleriders continued to compete on the glass and pushed the tempo whenever opportunities arose, keeping themselves within striking distance through the early portion of the half. Southern Nazarene answered with consistent offensive execution, gradually stretching the lead as the half progressed. Still, SAU continued to battle, showing resilience and effort on every possession. Despite the Muleriders' push, Southern Nazarene closed out the contest down the stretch, as SAU fought until the final buzzer in a 66-51 result.
 
"The guys played hard and stayed together. I'm really proud of their effort," said Head Coach Mark Rutledge. "We were still shorthanded due to sickness, but they fought hard. This game comes down to making shots, rebounds, and turnovers. When we fix that we will be very tough to beat."
 
Top Performers
Jair Horton: 13 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals
Greg Moore Jr.: 9 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal
Troy'reon Ramos: 8 points, 3 rebounds
 
Next Up
The Muleriders will be back in action Thursday, February 5th inside the W.T. Watson Center against East Central University. Tipoff is set of 7:30 p.m.