PLAINVIEW --- Fueled by balanced scoring, relentless defense, and strong leadership, the Wayland Baptist Pioneers earned a hard-fought 70–65 victory over the John Brown Golden Eagles on Friday afternoon, improving to 18-5 overall and 12-5 in conference play. The Pioneers controlled key moments in both halves and showed poise late to defend their home court.
Wayland established its rhythm early behind efficient offensive execution and strong ball movement. Junior forward
Rico Yarbrough set the tone by attacking the lane and finishing through contact, while
Marcus Green and
Jamari Lawrence helped space the floor and create scoring opportunities. The Pioneers shot over 51 percent in the first half and used their depth to maintain pressure, building a 40–36 lead at the break.
Yarbrough was the driving force throughout the game, finishing with a team-high 24 points, six rebounds, and five steals. He consistently created offense in transition, forced turnovers on defense, and stepped up at the free-throw line in critical moments. His energy and leadership kept Wayland composed during multiple momentum swings.
Off the bench,
Julian Perez delivered one of his strongest performances of the season. Perez scored 13 points on 6-of-11 shooting and provided a steady presence in the paint. His mid-range jumper with under 30 seconds remaining extended Wayland's lead and effectively sealed the victory. Perez's ability to score inside and defend without fouling was instrumental down the stretch.
Marcus Green added nine points and eight rebounds, giving the Pioneers valuable production on both ends of the floor. His rebounding helped limit second-chance opportunities, while his defensive effort disrupted John Brown's interior attack.
Jamari Lawrence contributed eight points and a team-high seven assists, directing the offense with patience and vision and keeping teammates involved throughout the contest.
Wayland also received meaningful contributions from
Dylan McDougal,
Jordan Logan,
Chuks Ejiofor, and
Brett Leach with each providing defensive intensity and timely minutes.
In the second half, the Pioneers faced consistent pressure as John Brown attempted to rally. Wayland responded with disciplined defense and smart shot selection. Despite shooting just 1-for-11 from three-point range after halftime, the Pioneers compensated by attacking the basket, drawing fouls, and finishing in the lane. Wayland scored 28 points in the paint and continued to create high-percentage looks.
Defensively, Wayland was especially strong in the closing minutes. The Pioneers limited John Brown to contested shots, forced turnovers, and secured crucial rebounds. Yarbrough's perimeter defense and Green's work on the glass helped prevent second chances, while Lawrence and Perez made smart decisions under pressure.
As a team, Wayland shot 47.4 percent from the field, recorded 14 assists, and forced key turnovers that shifted momentum. The Pioneers also outscored John Brown from the bench, highlighting their depth and versatility.
The Pioneers will now prepare for a tough contest against #9 Langston that will be played on Monday, February 9
th, at 8:00 PM in the Hutcherson Center.
