SAN ANTONIO, Texas (February 12, 2026) – The University of Texas Permian Basin men's basketball team was held to its second-lowest scoring output of the season and its third-lowest field goal percentage in conference play in an 82-56 defeat at St. Mary's University on Thursday.

St. Mary's (16-7 overall, 9-6 Lone Star Conference) shot nearly 60 percent (59.4 percent) with 19 made field goals (19-32) in the first half, running out to a 12-point lead (43-31) at halftime. After a layup by Sharrod Taylor made it just a two-point game (26-24) in the final five minutes of the first half, StMU scored each of the next 11 points, scored on each of its next seven possessions, and scored on eight of its last nine possessions of the half overall.

It took only five and a half minutes into the second half for StMU to expand its lead to over 20 points (57-36). The Rattlers made each of their first four shots from the field and first two 3-pointers, and started 6-for-7 (85.7 percent) overall while UTPB (9-14, 5-10) made just two of its first 13 shots (15.4 percent) in the second period.

The Rattlers shot 65.2 percent (15-23) in the second half and sank five of their six 3-point attempts (83.3 percent) in the period to seal the win.

It was the second game in a row the defense for UTPB has allowed its opponent to shot over 60 percent for the game.

UTPB was paced in scoring by Taylor with 13 points on three 3-pointers, Rashad Kee with 11 points on 5-for-9 shooting from the field, TJ McKenzie with 10 points, and Bryceson Burns with nine points. Tash Lunday tied for game-high honors in rebounds with seven.

UTPB never led and trailed 24-9 on points off turnovers and 50-18 on points in the paint. StMU also won the rebound battle, 31-24, but the Falcons did hold a 10-8 edge on offensive rebounds, leading to a 12-12 tie on second chance points.

UTPB keeps to the road on Saturday, February 14 (Valentine's Day), taking on St. Edward's University. The game is scheduled to start 3 p.m. from Austin, Texas.