#14 South Plains College Texans Defeat Temple College 96-88 at the Texan Dome

LEVELLAND, TX - The No 14 South Plains College Texans returned home in winning fashion on November 22, 2025, defeating Temple College 96-88 at the Texan Dome. The Texans outscored the Leopards in both halves, taking a narrow 48-47 lead into halftime before pulling away in the second half 48-41 to secure the eight-point victory.

South Plains was powered by a standout performance from Zion Pipkin, who poured in 32 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and added 1 steal. Pipkin was highly efficient, shooting 11-of-19 from the field and a perfect 10-of-10 from the free-throw line. 

Deion Ware added 16 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 steal, while Yohandry Ortiz contributed 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist, giving the Texans three starting players in double figures, Jaylen Colon also had 13 points coming off the bench. 

Although Temple College shot better from the field, making 31-of-59 attempts, and posted a stronger percentage from the three-point line at 35% compared to South Plains' 25%, the Texans found their advantage at the free-throw line. South Plains shot 80.5% (33-of-41) from the stripe, a key factor in securing the win. 

The Texans also held a slight edge on the boards, out rebounding the Leopards 32-39, and their defensive pressure paid off as they forced 19 Temple turnovers, converting those into 19 points. 

South Plains built its largest lead of the night of 12 points with 1:04 remaining in the second half, allowing them to close out the game comfortably and improve to 5-1 on the season. 

The Texans will now take time off for Thanksgiving before returning to action at the Texan Dome for the Texan Classic, December 4-6, where they will face Snow College, Hill College, and Lamar Community College.