Alexis Bernal

(Left to Right) Trey Sinegal, Anthony Sierras, Vegas Evans, Richard Amaefule and Kaden Morgan are the starting lineup for the Rams men’s basketball team heading into the tournament.

It’s tournament time, and both Texas Wesleyan basketball teams are in—locked in.  

The No. 6 seed Rams will face No. 3 seed Mid-America Christian on February 27 at 8 p.m. in Oklahoma City, and the No. 5 seed Lady Rams will face No. 4 seed College of the Ozarks in a quarterfinal matchup in Point Lookout, Missouri. 

The men’s basketball team finished their official 2024-25 season with a 19-9 overall record. This will be Brian Wanamakers first time competing in the conference tournament as head coach. 

“It’s an exciting feeling. It’s the result of all the time and hard work that has been put in. The growth of the team has been night and day,” Wanamaker said. “Our key to success has been our togetherness, our energy and our defense. These guys bought in, and now we are top 2 in defense and have been #1 and #2 for most of the second semester.” 

The Lady Rams wrapped up their season with a 19-9 overall record. Head coach Scott Hyland emphasized that defense has been the foundation of the team’s success.  

“Our defense has really been a key component for us.  We are 2nd in the conference in scoring defense.  We also have one of the top defenses in the conference in field goal percentage defense, opponent turnovers and steals,” Hyland said.  “In fact, we are the only team in the conference that is top 3 in each of those categories.  Our defense truly is a team effort.  Everyone that steps on the floor plays a key role in our defensive success.” 

Sophomore exercise science major Kameryn Phillips, the team’s leading scorer with an average of 13.3 points per game, shared her thoughts on preparation, as the team readies for tournament play. 

“We’re just going to do the things that help us beat them at home,” Phillips said. “I think what will help us succeed is solid defense and not turning the ball over, also getting the ball into the post because good things happen when we do that.” 

Both teams will aim to make a run in the conference tournament, relying on their defensive strengths as they compete for a championship. 

For updates on the SAC tournament please visit Sooner Athletics.