The win moved TLU to 6-3 overall and to 5-1 in the American Southwest Conference West Division. The win keeps the Bulldogs near the top of the division standings. TLU entered Saturday’s conference game just a half game out of first place.
UT-Dallas fell to 3-5 overall and to 1-4 in the ASC with the loss.
Texas Lutheran took its first lead (on a Stolhandske jumper) three minutes into the game and never relinquished its advantage. TLU led by as many as 14 in the first half and by as many as 12 in the second half.
The Comets cut the TLU lead to five (46-41) with 7:46 to play. TLU answered on its next possession with a three-pointer from Mike Ekanem, who finished with 13 points and four rebounds.
The Bulldogs’ lead hit 11 again a few minutes later with TLU going 6-for-6 at the foul line. Matt Nelson, Stolhandske and Ekanem each made their free throws in that stretch to allow TLU some breathing room.
Texas Lutheran shot 44.4 percent from the field and held the Comets to 34.6 percent. TLU led the ASC last season in field goal percentage defense.
Texas Lutheran’s next game is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 3, against the University of the Ozarks (Ark.). Game time in TLU’s Memorial Gymnasium is set for 7:30 p.m.