BROWNWOOD, Texas – The Howard Payne University men's basketball team used stellar defense to claim a 69-65 victory over the University of Texas at Dallas in the Yellow Jackets home opener Saturday in the Brownwood Coliseum.

The Howard Payne defense held UT Dallas to just 36.5% shooting from the field and forced 17 Comets turnovers in the game.

In a game that the lead changed 12 times, the Jackets would hold a 37-32 halftime advantage. UT Dallas would regain the lead only twice in the second half.

With the game tied at 65-65 with 1:08 remaining, the Jackets forced a charge and turnover while making 4 out of 6 free-throws to secure the 69-65 victory.

Shadd Cole led the Jackets with 18 points on 6 of 9 shooting while grabbing six rebounds. Javaris Jones followed with 13 points going 5 of 10 from the field and grabbing team high seven rebounds.

UTD was led by Dimitrius Underwood with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Michael Foster added 14 points.

Howard Payne is now 2-6 overall and 1-0 in American Southwest Conference action. UTD stands at 6-2 overall and 2-1 in league play. The Jackets will play next on the road at LeTourneau University on Dec. 8th at 3:00 pm.