South Plains College led for most of the first half, with sophomore Tramar Sutherland leading the way early on with SPC's first seven points of the game.
With just over two minutes remaining in the first half the Texans held a six point lead, 26-20. A three point play by Howard's Jae Crowder sparked an 8-0 run for the Hawks to give them the lead. With only seconds remaining on the clock, freshman point guard Josh Orta heaved a deep three that banked off the backboard and slid in for three points as time expired to give the Texans a 29-28 lead at intermission.
Howard then began the second half with another 8-0 scoring run to take what would turn out to be the largest lead of the game.
SPC fought back and retook the lead with 7:42 remaining on Eian Davis drive and layup inside the paint, 51-50. The two teams then tangled back and forth and the Texans would eventually take their final lead of the game 60-59 with a two point bucket by Myles Walker.
Two converted free throws by Howard's Carlos Emory would seal the Texans fate and they would go on to fall, 61-60.
Bo Ingram led the Texans with 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting while Tramar Sutherland added 15 points, 11 of which came in the first half.
The South Plains College Texans will return to the hardwood on Monday, February 8th at 7:45 p.m. when they face top ranked Midland College (24-0, 8-0) at the Texan Dome.
Ameriprise Financial and Mike Mamantov will host a VIP reception for all South Plains College employees from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. Fajitias will be served in the Texan Dome and employees will be encouraged to register for a chance to win a $100.00 door prize.