Texans Open Season with 86-66 Road Win Over Otero College

TRINIDAD, Co. - The South Plains College men's basketball team tipped off the 2025 season in dominant fashion Friday night, defeating Otero College 86-66 on the road.

The Texans were led by Yohandry Ortiz, who poured in 28 points to go along with 3 rebounds and 1 assist. Ortiz was highly efficient from the floor, shooting 10-of-15 from the field and 4-of-6 from the free-throw line, while also knocking down 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. 

Antallah Sandlin'el followed with 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assist, while Micah Bell provided a spark off the bench, contributing 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. 

The Texans controlled the game from start to finish, stretching their lead to as many as 21 points late in the second half with 1:42 remaining. South Plains shot an impressive 50,8% from the field, 47.4% from three-point range, and 85% from the free-throw line. 

South Plains also won the battle on the boards, grabbing 34 rebounds, and capitalized on Otero turnovers for 14 points. The Texans added 14 second-chance points and another 10 points in transition to round out a strong team performance. 

With the victory, the Texans begin the season 1-0 and will return to action tomorrow at 4:00 PM which they take on Trinidad State in Trinidad, Colorado.