AUSTIN, Texas – In a showdown between two of the SCAC's top programs, the Concordia Texas men's basketball team battled No. 4‑ranked St. Thomas (TX) wire‑to‑wire before falling 81‑79 in a heart‑stopping finish inside the Deb & Don Christian Fieldhouse on Saturday afternoon.

The matchup delivered all the intensity expected from a conference heavyweight clash with nine ties and 13 lead changes. CTX trailed 42‑41 at halftime and stayed within a single possession for most of the second half, but the Celts' efficiency at the free‑throw line (30‑of‑36) ultimately proved decisive.

Concordia's offense found its rhythm through crisp ball movement and timely execution, repeatedly answering St. Thomas runs with composed half‑court sets and transition pushes. The Tornados generated quality looks at the rim throughout the afternoon, attacking the paint to stay within a single possession for much of the second half. Their bench provided a crucial lift during multiple stretches, especially midway through the first half when CTX's energy and pace helped reclaim the lead. Even as the Celts tightened defensively late, the Tornados continued to create high‑percentage opportunities and convert at the free‑throw line, keeping the game within reach until the final horn.

St. Thomas leaned heavily on its interior presence, scoring 42 points in the paint and getting a combined 46 points from Reyce Allen, Angel Johnson, and Charles Gitonga. The Celts struggled from deep—just 1‑for‑11—but made up for it with physicality on the glass and timely free‑throw shooting.

Despite the narrow loss, CTX's bench once again showed up, outscoring the Celts' reserves 31‑16. The Tornados also forced 17 turnovers and held St. Thomas to just 38 percent shooting in the second half.

BOX SCORE STANDOUTS

Joey Ramirez 16 Pts, 7 Reb, 4 Ast
Percy Green 15 Pts, 4 Reb, 4 Blk
Aaron San Miguel 14 Pts, 7 Ast, 4 Stl
Anariss Brandon 12 Pts, 4 Reb, 2 Stl
Tremayne Martin 9 Pts, 3 Reb

Concordia Texas moves to 15‑3 overall and 8‑1 in SCAC play. The Tornados continue their homestand next week as they look to bounce back and stay firmly in the conference title race.

To keep up to date with everything surrounding the CTX men's basketball program, follow us on social media (@ctxathletics) and visit athletics.concordia.edu.