MBB
HPU Sports Information
78
Austin Austin 0-2,0-0 SCAC
86
Winner Howard Payne HPU 5-0,0-0 ASC
Austin Austin
0-2,0-0 SCAC
78
Final
86
Howard Payne HPU
5-0,0-0 ASC
Winner
Score By Periods
Team 1 2 F
Austin Austin 48 30 78
Howard Payne HPU 44 42 86

Game Recap: Men's Basketball |

History in the Hive: Jackets Soar to Unprecedented 5–0 Start

Five and Flying: Jackets Keep Making History in Brownwood

Jackets Make History, Move to 5–0 With Electric Win in Brownwood
Brownwood, Texas — Inside a charged Brownwood Coliseum, the Howard Payne Yellow Jackets continued their unbelievable early-season surge, defeating Austin College 86–78 to push their record to 5–0 for the first time in program history. One night removed from Superhero Night, the Jackets showed that their power wasn't tied to a theme — it's who they are. With the crowd feeding off every steal, fast-break bucket, and burst of energy, HPU delivered another statement that this year's group is different, determined, and building something special under head coach Nadir Dalleh.

HPU's defensive intensity once again shaped the night, as the Jackets forced 23 turnovers and turned them into a massive 25 points the other way. The team's pressure was relentless, sparking 14 steals, and igniting run after run that kept Austin College from ever settling in. Offensively, the Jackets attacked from every angle — hitting eight threes, pushing the tempo for 19 fast-break points, and getting major production from the bench, which poured in 30 points to keep the energy high for all 40 minutes. HPU also dominated the second half at the free-throw line, finishing 26-of-38, including clutch makes in the final minutes to close out the victory.

Individually, several Jackets delivered big-time moments. Ben Phillip delivered a powerful all-around performance, finishing in double figures and hauling in 8 rebounds in key stretches to help control the tempo. Trey Jackson continued his consistent play on the perimeter by knocking down tough shots in rhythm, adding 13 points on the night. The combination of guard pressure, front court toughness, and balanced offensive firepower once again showcased a team that can score in bunches and defend at a championship level.

After the game, Coach Dalleh didn't hide his pride in what this start means for Howard Payne basketball, saying,
"This is a special group. To come out and do something that's never been done before — that takes belief, effort, and heart. And these guys have all of it. We're honored to make history, but we're not close to satisfied."

With the win, the Jackets not only extend their undefeated run — they cement the best start in HPU men's basketball history, sending a message to the conference and to the fans in the Heartland that this season is shaping up to be one to remember. The buzz in the Coliseum is growing louder each night, and as the Jackets move forward, they do so with confidence, momentum, and the belief that something truly special is unfolding.

The Jackets will hit the road next for a 2-game road trip at McMurry on November 20th followed by Texas A&M Corpus Christi on November 22nd. The team will return home on November 25th against Southwestern University.  
 
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