WAXAHACHIE, Texas — Benedictine University Mesa used a late 3-pointer to end Southwestern College's season with a 61-58 win in the first round of the NAIA National Tournament on Friday evening.

Malik Payton hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 10 seconds remaining to give the Redhawks a three-point lead, and Southwestern's final attempt from beyond the arc fell short. 

Southwestern (21-10) led 54-48 with 5:33 remaining after back-to-back baskets from Austin Hilton, but Benedictine Mesa closed the game on a 13-4 run to secure the victory.

Zach Hidalgo led the Moundbuilders with 14 points and 12 rebounds off the bench. Hilton added 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Evan Barber finished with 12 points. Nigel John contributed 11 points for Southwestern.

The teams battled throughout the second half, with the score tied at 46 midway through the period before Southwestern built its six-point advantage. Benedictine Mesa answered late behind Khari Dunn and Payton, who combined for the final surge.

Dunn finished with 16 points for the Redhawks, while Payton added 15 points, including the game-winning 3-pointer.

Southwestern shot 44.4% from the field and outrebounded Benedictine Mesa 35-19, but turnovers proved costly as the Redhawks scored 19 points off Southwestern miscues.

The loss brings the Moundbuilders' season to an end with a 21-10 overall record.