The Howard Payne men's basketball team wrapped up play before the Christmas break in emphatic fashion, outlasting Concordia (TX) in a thrilling 119–117 victory Tuesday afternoon in Austin. The win marked Howard Payne's second straight and third victory in its last four games, with the Yellow Jackets delivering a season-high 119 points in a festive offensive showcase.

Armonie Ramey led the way with a dominant all-around performance, finishing with 24 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists, and four steals as he filled the stat sheet from every angle. Ben Phillip added a strong shooting night with 23 points, knocking down four three-pointers while also pulling down eight rebounds and dishing out six assists. Jordan McClendon chipped in 18 points and seven rebounds, while Trey Jackson added 17 points and seven assists to keep the offense humming. 6 jackets scored in double figures in the contest.

Howard Payne's depth also played a key role in the victory, with Braylon Crosby scoring 14 points off the bench and Nathan Scott contributing 11. The Yellow Jackets shot efficiently throughout the afternoon and turned defense into offense, piling up fast-break points and sharing the ball with 37 assists on 48 made field goals.

With the holiday break now ahead, the Yellow Jackets head into the pause riding a wave of momentum. Howard Payne will return to action on Monday, Dec. 29, when it travels to Buena Vista University for a 4:00 p.m. tipoff, looking to carry that scoring touch and winter warmth into the final game of the calendar year.