CANYON, Texas – The West Texas A&M Buffaloes dropped a 97-89 Lone Star Conference rivalry road game to the #19 Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds on Thursday night at Steve Loy Family Foundation Arena in Portales, New Mexico.
 
West Texas A&M started the game with early free throws by James Parlow Jr., taking a brief lead. The visiting team maintained momentum with strong inside play, scoring 14 points in the paint, and effective bench contributions totaling seven points. 
 
Despite turnovers, the Buffs kept the pressure on Eastern New Mexico by hitting five three-pointers and securing six offensive rebounds, which allowed them to stay competitive throughout the half. The half concluded with the Buffs trailing by a narrow margin, 42-39.
 
West Tex. A&M began the second half with a quick start, as Kemper Jones' jumper and subsequent plays by Brock Mishak and Parlow Jr. helped temporarily regain the lead. However, Eastern N.M. countered with consistent scoring, maintaining a narrow advantage. Key performances from Parlow Jr. and Mishak kept the contest competitive, highlighted by Parlow Jr.'s crucial steals and assists.
 
As the half progressed, Eastern N.M. extended their lead through a combination of free throws and inside scoring. Despite efforts from the Buffs, including a late three-pointer from Zach Brown, Eastern N.M. sustained their lead. The half closed with Eastern N.M. ahead, 97-89, after a challenging back-and-forth battle.
 
Parlow Jr. led the team with 20 points, converting all eight of his free throws and recording two steals. Mishak scored 19 points, including three 3-pointers, and collected five rebounds. Jones added 15 points with two 3-pointers and secured five rebounds. Brown contributed nine points, hitting three 3-pointers and collecting nine rebounds.
 
The Buffs return to the First United Bank Center next Thursday night as they host the UT Tyler Patriots with tipoff set for 7:30 p.m.