AUSTIN, Texas (January 2, 2026) — Lubbock Christian University opened the new year in winning fashion, defeating St. Edward's University 88-71 at the Recreation and Convocation Center. 

The Chaparrals were led by Antonio Pusateri's career-high 32 points, which he scored on an extremely efficient 14-of-17 shooting. The visitors also capitalized on turnovers, converting 18 points off SEU's 12 turnovers, while limiting their own to just seven.

Lubbock Christian now holds a record of 13-2 overall and 4-1 in Lone Star Conference competition. The Hilltoppers drop to 13-2 overall and 2-2 in the LSC.

The two teams traded baskets in the early going, before a three-pointer from Lucas Mercandino at the 16:46 mark sparked a 13-0 Lubbock Christian run over the next six minutes that they used to go up by double-figures for the first time. 

SEU cut it back to single-digits with a 5-0 scoring burst, but was never able to pull closer than that the rest of the half. LCU got the lead back out to double-digits with just over eight minutes to play in the half, and led by as many as 14 when Pusateri completed an and-one at the 3:59 mark. The Hilltoppers scored the final six points of the half, sending the teams to the break with the score 45-37.

Mercandino's three-pointer sparked a strong start to the second half for the Chaparrals. The team showcased effective shooting, hitting 15 of 28 field goals and converting all eight free throw attempts in the final 20 minutes. Kendall Dow played a pivotal role, contributing multiple assists and scoring key points, including a three-pointer at the 10:28 mark. 

The Chaps capitalized on turnovers, amassing five steals and maintaining a solid defense with 13 defensive rebounds. The half ended with the Chaparrals outscoring SEU 43–34, concluding the game with an 88–71 victory.

Pusateri led the team with his career-high 32 points and secured 11 rebounds for his ninth double-double of the season. Dow added 18 points and six assists, contributing effectively on both ends. Mercandino scored 15 points, and Alexa Anamekwe had 10. Leo Nordberg was active defensively, recording five steals and adding seven points.

GAME NOTES: 
- Pusteri's scoring effort was the second game of at least 30 points by a Chap this season, joining Amondo Miller Jr.'s 37-point game on Nov. 2 against Augusta.
- Lubbock Christian shot a season-high 93.3 percent from the free throw line in the win, hitting 14 of their 15 attempts from the charity stripe.
- The Chaparrals have now won two straight games against opponents ranked in the top 25 and three total this season. They will face the No. 20 Rattlers on Sunday.
- Junior forward Mercandino hit a season-high four three-pointers.
- The Chaps now lead the all-time series with SEU 25-12 and have won seven of the last eight meetings between the two teams.
- Leo Nordberg's five steals are the most in a single game by a Chap since Nov. 24, 2023, when Najeeb Muhammad have five against Southwestern Oklahoma State

NEXT UP:
The Chaps will travel to San Antonio to take on No. 20 St. Mary's at 3 p.m. on Sunday at Bill Greehey Arena.