On Tuesday, February 27, Texas College Men's Basketball closed the regular season of play with a thrilling 82-69 double-overtime victory at home over Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA). The Steers, down 33-31 at the half, rallied back and tied the game at 65 at the end of regulation. Texas College would go on to outscore XULA 13-0 in the second overtime. This win finalized a two-game regular-season sweep of XULA and congruently earned Texas College the number two seed for the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) Men's Basketball Tournament.
"I'm very proud of the young men on our basketball team for having an outstanding season," said Coach Matt Cross, Head Men's Basketball Coach. "We came back from the holidays in early January and won 11 straight games over the course of seven weeks. That winning streak really gave us the momentum and belief to put us in a great position heading into the conference tournament this weekend."
That 11-game win streak propelled the Steers to finish the regular season 21-7 overall, with a 17-5 record in the RRAC. The Steers appear to have hit their stride, with only two losses since January 2024.
"I continuously emphasize the importance of embracing moments of opportunity," noted Cross. "We are now blessed to have this special opportunity to participate in the 2024 college basketball postseason, known to many as “March Madness," where we will strive to go from a good team to a great team."
The Steers will head to Alexandria, Louisiana, on Friday, March 1, to face off against Jarvis Christian University at 6:30 P.M. in the quarterfinals of the RRAC Men's Basketball Tournament. The semifinals will be played on Saturday, March 2, at 5:30 P.M. and 7:30 P.M., with the championship game slated for Sunday, March 3, at 4:30 P.M.
"This is an exciting time for our team," said Cross. "I want to thank President Fennell, Vice President Marshall-Biggins, and Athletic Director Butler for all of their continued support, as well as the Texas College faculty, staff, students, alumni, and fans who have all played an important role in this season's success."
To view additional RRAC Men's Basketball Tournament information, visit: www.redriverconference.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/2024_RRAC_Men-s_Basketball_Tournament
