CANYON, Texas – The #4 Buffaloes struggled from the floor on Wednesday afternoon as they dropped a Top-5 matchup to the #1 Washburn Ichabods, 74-48 to conclude the River City Holiday Classic at Bill Greehey Arena in San Antonio, Texas.
 
West Texas A&M started strong with Fontaine Williams hitting a 3-pointer, assisted by Jailyn Sledge, to open the scoring. The team maintained an early lead, with Williams also contributing a layup and free throw to extend the advantage. Defensive efforts were highlighted by several steals, including those by Brendan Ballard and Sledge, allowing the Buffs to capitalize on turnovers.
 
However, Washburn found momentum midway through the half, capitalizing on fast breaks and turnovers. Despite strong individual performances from Brock Mishak and Zach Brown, who each added points, Washburn's offensive surge, including successful 3-point shots and fast break points, put them ahead. The half concluded with Washburn leading 44–24, as the Buffs aimed to regroup for the next half.
 
The Buffs started the second half trailing but showed determination to cut into Washburn's lead. Williams contributed early with a layup, and Ballard added a dunk off an assist from Williams, keeping the team competitive. Despite a series of turnovers, the duo of Ballard and Williams remained active, with Ballard securing a defensive rebound and adding a steal to his stat line.
 
Brown's 3-pointer midway through the half and his defensive steal provided a spark, but Washburn's efficiency from the field extended their lead. Jaden Holt ended the half with a free throw, but the Buffs trailed 74–48 at the close of the second half.
 
Williams led the way with 15 points, connecting on 6 of 11 shots and adding two steals. Brown contributed eight points, including two 3-pointers, and matched Williams with two steals. Ballard added eight points while recording six rebounds and three assists. Sledge provided defensive support with three blocks and two steals, adding four rebounds as well.
 
The Buffs close out 2025 inside of the First United Bank Center as they host the Patriots of Arlington Baptist on Saturday afternoon with tipoff set for 1:00 p.m.