The sharp shooting of Sam Talbert was not enough for the LeTourneau University men's basketball team, who dropped an 87-61 decision to host Mary Hardin-Baylor on Saturday afternoon in Belton.
 
The YellowJackets (4-6, 2-3 ASC) were led by Talbert, who tied a season-high with six 3 pointers en route to 18 points.  Junior Giovanny Thompson nearly had a double double with nine points and 10 rebounds.
 
The Cru (7-3, 4-1 ASC) led nearly from start to finish and had a trio in double digits with Justin Gammill (14 points), Russell Green (12 points) and Braden Hammond (11 points). UMHB shot 50.9% from the field and outrebounded LeTourneau, 52-33 in the win.
 
LETU freshman Kelby Schimming put the YellowJackets ahead on the opening possession for an early 2-0 lead but the host Cru scored the next six points and never relinquished the lead. UMHB started the game, shooting 55.6% from the field and an aggressive defense presence held the YellowJackets to 29.4% shooting in the first half. On three occasions, in the second half, LeTourneau drew as close as 20. 
 
Next, the YellowJackets will regroup and travel to Austin on Monday, Jan. 5 to face Concordia.