RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Henderson State extended its road winning streak to three games on Thursday night with a convincing 75-61 victory over Arkansas Tech at Tucker Coliseum. The win propelled the Reddies to 7-2 overall and a perfect 3-0 record in Great American Conference play.
Matthew Mayes led the charge for Henderson State, posting a game-high 19 points on 8-of-15 shooting, while adding five rebounds and five steals. Rondae Hill provided a spark from beyond the arc, hitting 4-of-5 three-pointers to tally 16 points. Braydon Redd came off the bench to secure 12 points and 9 rebounds.
The Reddies set the tone early, outscoring the Wonder Boys 40-32 in the first half. Arkansas Tech closed within striking distance early in the second half, cutting the lead to two at 45-43. However, Henderson responded with a decisive 20-7 run, fueled by timely defensive stops and fast-break opportunities, to pull away late for its third straight victory to open conference play.
HSU returns to action on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. when it hosts Harding in its GAC home opener at the Duke Wells Center.
Key Moments
- First-Half Run: Henderson State took control midway through the first half with a 10-2 run, highlighted by back-to-back three-pointers from Hill and a fast-break layup from Mayes.
- Defensive Stand: Early in the second half, Arkansas Tech cut the lead to two points at 45-43. Henderson State responded with smothering defense, forcing three turnovers in a critical stretch that led to a 20-7 run.
- Game-Sealing Sequence: With 6:16 left in the game, Mayes stole the ball and finished with a thunderous dunk to put Henderson State up by 11, energizing the bench and dashing Arkansas Tech's hopes of a comeback.
By the Numbers
- Shooting Efficiency: Henderson State shot 52.5% from the field compared to Arkansas Tech's 46%.
- Points in the Paint: The Reddies outscored the Wonder Boys 44-28 in close-range opportunities.
- Bench Contributions: Henderson's bench outscored Arkansas Tech's 26-12.
- Turnover Margin: Henderson State forced 15 turnovers while committing only 12.
