A late 9-0 run by Hardin-Simmons University inside the final two minutes of play lifted HSU over Howard Payne University 77-76 in men’s basketball action Thursday evening.

With the scored tied at 68 and 3:42 remaining, HPU scored 8 unanswered points fueled by a Quentin Calloway’s charge and steal in a minute span, to take the lead 76-68.

With the 8 point lead, the HPU men couldn’t break the HSU full court pressure in the last minute, turning the ball over three times for a total of six points. Those points combined with a three point shot put Hardin-Simmons on top for good 77-76.
John Bryant led all on the night for HPU with 15 points, Keith Perry had 14 and Brandon Irwin added 13 points.

For Hardin-Simmons, Casey Riddle had a big second half and got 16 points for the night, followed by John Derr with 13. Aaron Thorton and Derek Bryant had 10 each.

Howard Payne falls to 2-14 overall and 2-10 in the ASC, Hardin-Simmons moves to 3-12 overall and 3-8 in the ASC.

The next game for HPU will be at home Saturday, Jan. 23 against McMurry University at 3:00 pm.