MAGNOLIA, Ark. — Zaveion Okoh scored 26 points and Henderson State used timely runs on both sides of halftime to pull away for an 80-70 victory over Southern Arkansas on Thursday night at W.T. Watson Athletic Center.

The Reddies (6-5, 3-2 GAC) carried a 39-35 lead into the break after a 7-2 run capped by a Jameel Wesley II dunk and an Okoh dunk just before the horn. Henderson then seized control coming out of intermission, opening the second half on another 7-2 run to stretch the margin to nine and set the tone the rest of the way.

Okoh was the catalyst throughout, shooting 10 of 18 from the floor while adding three rebounds, two steals, and two blocks. Xavier Owens followed with 15 points and nine rebounds, while Tyson Whybrew chipped in eight points and four boards. Wesley finished with 11 points off the bench, providing energy on both ends.

Henderson shot 50.8 percent from the field and dominated the paint, outscoring Southern Arkansas 46-22 inside. The Reddies also forced 19 turnovers, converting them into 24 points. Transition baskets came in bunches for HSU, as they outscored the Muleriders 26-2 on fast break points.

Southern Arkansas (5-5, 2-2) was led by Jair Horton's 21 points and 11 rebounds, but the Muleriders were held to 31.4 percent shooting in the second half and could not close the gap after Henderson pushed the lead to double digits. The Reddies' largest advantage reached 14 points late in the second half, and they closed the game at the free-throw line to secure the road conference win.

Henderson State will be off until January 3rd, 2026, when they welcome the University of Arkansas-Monticello in a GAC showdown. Tipoff from the Duke Wells Center is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.