Men's Basketball held off East Texas Baptist University here at the JAAC. After a midgame push, the Celts strong defense held the Tiger's late try at a comeback to win 83-81. 

Freddie Ricks started the game off strong for the Celts with a layup as the Tigers and Celts began to trade baskets. Back-to-back threes from freshman Nick Anderson were hit as it gave St. Thomas a 10-6 lead early in the game. The Celts continued to jump with a 17-12 lead, yet it wasnt enough before back-to-back Tiger threes and strong defense put the visitors ahead 20-19. ETBU's strong defense continued as they went on a 14-5 run. But late in the half the Tigers struggled to find an answer to the Celts' offense as they were able to claw back into the game and go into halftime down 43-34.

The Celts shocked the Tigers coming out the half with a 13-4 run to suddenly tie the game back up as Calvin Williams scored six points of the thirteen. With the score tied at 47, one team had to take control of the game. St. Thomas answered with another large 15-2 run capped off by a three-pointer from Ricky Altamirano to make the score 62-49. With this lead, the Celts lead proved to be too much as the Tigers late comeback attempt fell short. They got as close as two points, yet St. Thomas continued to answer with late baskets and key free throws. As the clock hit zero, St. Thomas secured the 83-81 comeback victory.

Calvin Williams had an impressive 22 point performance, and not far behind freshman Nick Anderson scored 21 with three, threes. The third Celt to reach over ten was Freddie Ricks with 11 in the game. Defensively, Calen Anderson led with nine rebounds and Adam Kanafani had eight. 

Up next, St. Thomas travels to California to face Claremont Mudd Scripps on November 18th, tip off is set for 9 PM CST.