FORT WORTH --- The Wayland Baptist Flying Queens put together a dominant second-half performance to secure a 65–53 road victory over Texas Wesleyan on Thursday night at the Sid Richardson Center, marking their fifth consecutive victory.
The Queens (10–9, 9–5 SAC) took control early and never relinquished the lead, using a stifling defensive effort and a massive third-quarter surge to create separation. Wayland led 30–26 at halftime before opening the second half on a decisive run, outscoring the Rams 25–5 in the third quarter to build a commanding advantage.
Junior guard
Jadyn Trusler led the way for Wayland Baptist, finishing with a game-high 16 points while knocking down four three-pointers.
Cania Mitchell added 13 points, four assists, and three steals, consistently attacking the paint and converting at the free-throw line.
Zalika Stevens was also key off the bench, scoring 10 points and pulling down eight rebounds while drawing multiple fouls inside.
Wayland's defense was the difference-maker throughout the night. The Queens forced 24 Texas Wesleyan turnovers and turned them into 22 points, disrupting the Rams' offensive rhythm and limiting them to just five points in the third quarter.
Iliana Hernandez contributed nine points and four steals, while
Brooklyn Birkenfeld controlled the glass with a team-high 11 rebounds.
Despite a late push by Texas Wesleyan in the fourth quarter, Wayland remained composed, hitting timely free throws and getting key defensive stops to close out the win. The Queens finished the game shooting over 82 percent from the foul line, a crucial factor in maintaining their lead down the stretch.
The Queens will look to continue their hot streak on Saturday, January 31
st, when they travel to Waxahachie, Texas for another Sooner Athletic Conference showdown against the Nelson Lions. The game is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM.
