The Howard Payne men’s basketball team could not keep up with Hardin-Simmons University and fell 88-62 Saturday at the Mabee Complex.

Both teams struggled to score in the opening minutes but Hardin-Simmons was able to gain a slight lead 6-2 with 15 minutes to play in the half.

Recording 13 first half offensive rebounds, Hardin-Simmons was able to build on their advantage leading 48-27 at the break.

It was all HSU in the second as they extended the lead and posted the 88-62 win. HSU scored 31 points off turnovers to Howard Payne’s six.
Donovan Gardner led Howard Payne with 15 points and nine rebounds. Henry Valladares added 10.

Hardin-Simmons was led by Matt Addison with a game high 30 points. Derrick Jefferson added 18 points, 18 rebounds and five assists. Casey Riddle followed with 17 points.

Howard Payne now stands at 4-11 overall and 3-8 in ASC action. HSU is 9-5 overall and 8-2 in conference.

The Jackets will be on the road again next week at Texas Lutheran on Thursday and Schreiner on Saturday.