The Howard Payne University men’s basketball rode a strong 2^nd half to take down Mary Hardin-Baylor 96-79 Thursday, December 14 at the Brownwood Coliseum.

The Yellow Jackets were able to jump out to a 44-40 lead heading into the break with Hudson Johnson scoring 20 points within the first 20 minutes of action. Howard Payne would also capitalize off turnovers from the Crusaders, as they scored 16 points alone from them in the first half.

Despite losing the battle on the boards by 17, The Yellow Jackets were able to build on their four-point first half lead to win the game 96-79. Myles Brown gave HPU the second half boost they needed, scoring 17 total points.

The Yellow Jackets were able to force 22 turnovers that led to 29 points. HPU would total 31 fast break points compared to UMHB’s four. Howard Payne was able to keep possession of the ball as they only turned it over nine times on the way to 14 assists.

HPU finished 48.6% (35-72) from the field while nailing eight three-pointers as well. UMHB shot 40.6% (14-39) from the field, adding seven treys on the night.

Hudson Johnson finished with a career-high 28 points to go along with five rebounds and four steals. Following behind was Myles Brown who recorded 17 points along with Jarod Johnson with 14 of his own. Rounding out the four double-digit scorers for the Yellow Jackets was Armonie Ramey who scored 14 points while also tallying seven steals on the night.

UMHB was led be Josiah Johnson who scored 21 points. Following behind was Ryan Pondant who scored 14 of his own, adding nine rebounds as well.

Howard Payne will look to build off this conference win as they take on Concordia (TX) at the Brownwood Coliseum on Saturday, December 16^th with tip-off set for 3:00 PM.