The Temple College Leopards began their weekend by taking on No. 17 South Plains College at the Texan Classic at Levelland's Texan Dome.

Both teams started sluggish from the field before SPC pulled away and dealt the Leopards an 88-53 loss.

Temple (5-3) trailed 12-10 with 12:10 to play in the first half before the Texans slowly pulled away.

SPC led the Leopards at the half, 43-29 and continued to build their advantage throughout the second half, as they led by as many as 36 points.

The Texans shot 46.3% from the field, which included 34.8% from behind the three-point line, and converted 18-of-23 free throws.

Four South Plains players scored in double figures, led by Issac Taveras with 22 points.

Temple shot 31.7% from the field, which included 25% behind the three-point arc, and were successful on 18-of-23 free throws.

Roy Gardner led the Leopards with ten points.

The Leopards will take on No. 21 Frank Phillips College at noon on Saturday.