AUSTIN, Texas – The St. Edward's Men's Basketball team opened the second half on an 18-8 run and went on to defeat St. Mary's 89-68 Wednesday night to extend their win streak to 13 and remain unbeaten in Heartland Conference play.

The Hilltoppers had a slow start, going 1-8 from the field in the opening five minutes but were able to stay close to the Rattlers with defensive pressure. COREY SHERVILL's three put SEU on top for the first time, 15-13, with 13:07 to go in the half.

Despite allowing the Rattlers to shoot 50% from the field and three-point range, the Hilltoppers went into the locker room with a slight five point advantage, 38-33, thanks in large part to forcing 13 first half turnovers.

The Rattlers opened the second half by pounding the ball inside, but SEU responded with an 11-2 run to lead by ten, 49-39, four minutes into the frame. The Hilltoppers continued to press on, extending their lead to 19, 75-56, on RYAN GARZA's three with just over five minutes remaining.

SEU shot 48.5% from the floor and 40.7% from three-point range and was led by Garza who posted 20 points on 7-9 shooting from the field and 5-7 from long range. DORIAN LOPEZ added a double-double, his fifth of the season and third consecutive game accomplishing the feat, with 18 points and 11 boards. ASHTON SPEARS chipped in 14 points with AUGUST HAAS leading the team with seven assists.

The Hilltoppers improve to 19-1 on the year, 8-0 in conference action, and remain at home to face Texas A&M International on Saturday at 3 pm.