LEVELLAND, Texas (Interstat) — The South Plains College Texans opened their season with a decisive 86-66 victory over the Otero College Rattlers in a men’s junior college basketball game Friday night, capitalizing on superior shooting and a dominant first-half performance.

The Texans set the tone early, outpacing the Rattlers 41-34 in a high-scoring first quarter and extending their lead with a 45-point second quarter. The offensive outburst proved insurmountable for Otero, which fell to 0-3 on the young season.

Yohandry Ortiz led all scorers for South Plains, pouring in 28 points in just 31 minutes of action. He was instrumental from beyond the arc, connecting on multiple three-pointers. He was complemented by Antallah Sandlin’el, who added 16 points and six rebounds, and Micah Bell, who chipped in 13 points and five rebounds.

The game was ultimately decided by shooting efficiency. South Plains shot a blistering 50.8 percent from the floor, converting 30 of their 59 field goal attempts. Their proficiency from long range was a key differentiator, as they knocked down 9 of 19 three-point attempts. The Texans were also efficient from the free-throw line, making 17 of 20 attempts.

Otero struggled to find its offensive rhythm, shooting just 35.1 percent on 20-of-57 shooting. The Rattlers were particularly cold from three-point territory, making only 2 of 15 attempts. While they found more success at the foul line, hitting 22 of 28 free throws, their overall offensive rating of 83.9 paled in comparison to South Plains’ mark of 111.0.

Despite the lopsided score, Otero showcased defensive tenacity, forcing 18 South Plains turnovers and recording 10 steals. The Rattlers also distributed the ball effectively, tallying 10 assists to the Texans’ two. Nedum Chiadika, Bertran Walthour Jr., SirDevin Roberts, and Noah Banks each scored in double figures for Otero, with Walthour Jr. leading the way with 11 points and six rebounds.

South Plains controlled the boards, outrebounding Otero 34 to 27, and used their size to protect the rim, registering six blocked shots. Alexandre K’Medehouto anchored the interior defense with 10 rebounds and two blocks for the Texans.

The game began with a flurry of turnovers from both sides before South Plains seized control with an early barrage of three-pointers, establishing a lead they would not relinquish. The Texans’ offensive firepower was on full display throughout the first half, building a comfortable margin that Otero could not challenge in the second half.

Otero looks to secure its first win of the season Saturday when it travels to face New Mexico Military Institute. South Plains, now 1-0, will hit the road for a game against Trinidad State College on Saturday.