ABILENE - The UT Tyler Patriots shot almost 55-percent from the floor but couldn't contain Hardin-Simmons guard Matt Addison who hit for a game-high 33 points and propelled the Cowboys to an 88-81 win in the American Southwest Conference men's basketball opener for both teams on Saturday.
Despite the hot shooting and a 37-30 advantage on the boards, the Patriots (1-2, 0-1 ASC) were hurt by 23 turnovers that led to 21 points for Hardin-Simmons.
Lance Murphy, who scored a team-high 17 points, gave the Patriots their only lead of the second half when his layup at 17:54 put UT Tyler ahead, 38-37. A three by Addison quickly put the Cowboys back on top and they extended their lead to 63-54 with 9:26 remaining.
UT Tyler closed the gap to 73-70 on a three-pointer by Jacob McDonald with just under five minutes to play but Hardin-Simmons used a three from Terrance Booker and four-straight free throws to hold on.
Darren Houliston posted his second double-double of the season in the Patriots' effort, grabbing 11 rebounds and scoring 16.
Brandon Levine (13), Spencer Terry (11) and McDonald (10) were all in double-digits for UT Tyler. Larry Carpenter had five assists.
The Patriots will look for their first conference win on Monday, playing McMurry at 7:30 in Abilene.