MARSHALL, Texas - The Howard Payne University men's basketball team fell 83-71 on the road to East Texas Baptist University Saturday afternoon in conference action.

Despite a stronger second half shooting effort by Howard Payne (41.3%), East Texas Baptist would connect on 58.6% of its shots in the second period to secure the game 83-71.

The first half was back and forth for both teams but ETBU put together a run just before the break to gain a 37-32 advantage at the half. With ETBU building nearly a 20 point lead with over 58% shooting, the Jackets were unable to get back in the game in the second period.

HPU was led by Jaylan Ballou with 19 points sparked by13 of 14 shooting at the free-throw line. Fredrick Watts had 11 points and Jerren Godfrey added 10 points.

ETBU was led by Jayden Williams with 18 points.

Howard Payne is now 3-9 overall and 2-5 in American Southwest Conference action. ETBU stands at 4-6 overall and 2-3 in league play. The Jackets play next on Sunday at D-I Abilene Christian University at 3:00 pm.