Jan. 25, 2007

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ABILENE, Texas - Matt Brackett scored a career-best 22 points to lead four Hardin-Simmons starters in double figures as the Cowboy basketball team pasted American Southwest Conference rival Howard Payne, 95-70, Thursday night at the Mabee Complex.

HSU jumped to an early lead and never really looked back. Both teams started cold and it was 2-2 with 14:33 to go in the first half. HSU then went on a 12-4 run to take a 16-6 lead at the 10:23 mark. HSU only led by less than 10 points twice the rest of the half and led 43-25 at intermission.

The Cowboys came out strong and pushed it to 51-28, before HPU went on a 10-1 run to cut it to 54-42. They would not get closer than 11 the rest of the game.

Brackett not only set a career best in points, but also pulled down a career-high eight rebounds. Zach Pickelman and Michael Dinkins had 16 points each and Mardochee Jean recorded 10 points, 17 rebounds and six blocks.

Lee Scott had 15 points to lead Howard Payne. He was the only Yellow Jacket in double figures.

HSU improved to 9-9 overall and 9-5 in league play. Howard Payne fell to 5-13 overall and 5-9 in league play. HSU plays Sul Ross State on Saturday at 3 p.m.

--- HSU Athletics ---