Billings, Mont. – The Angelo State men's basketball team tipped off the 2025-26 season in style, claiming a 73-62 win over Nebraska-Kearney on Friday morning at the D2CCA Tip-Off Classic at the Trailhead hosted by MSU Billings.

The Rams' defense stifled the Lopers, holding UNK to 31 percent shooting from the field and 24 percent shooting from three-point range.

The Rams shot 38.2 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from three; they also dominated the boards, out-rebounding their MIAA opponents 49-37.

In his collegiate debut, Davon Scott led the Rams with 18 points in only 19 minutes of action. The Oklahoman converted seven of his nine shots and made all four of his three-point attempts; he was responsible for four of the Rams' six makes from deep.

Jesaiah McWright scored 12 points, grabbing two rebounds and assisting twice.

Zyon Little and Kailon Nicholls each scored 11 points while also grabbing a pair of steals. Little led the Rams with eight rebounds, five of which were on the offensive glass.

Jaqai Murray contributed seven points and six rebounds, Quadir Pettaway scored five points, and Jordan Crawford and Ja'Queze Kirby scored four apiece. Crawford led the Rams with four assists and grabbed seven rebounds, while Kirby secured six rebounds.

Jhordan Ryan made an impact on defense. In 16 minutes off the bench, he blocked three shots, nabbed two steals, and grabbed seven boards.

The Rams open the season 1-0 for the third time in Vinay Patel's four seasons in charge of the Rams. The Rams are back in action tomorrow at noon, facing New Mexico Highlands.