JOPLIN, Mo. — Missouri Southern men's basketball (2-0) outlasted Southwestern Oklahoma (1-1), 77-76, Saturday evening at Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium.
MSSU now currently holds a 2-0 overall record while SWOSU stands at 1-1 overall. The Lions concluded their season-opening, home, MIAA/GAC Challenge with a perfect mark.
The game featured eight ties and five lead changes, culminating in a tense second half where Southern outscored SWOSU, 44-39.
The Lions capitalized on their free throws, converting 22 of 30 attempts, which proved crucial in the close contest. The Bulldogs led by four points at halftime, but MSSU's 26 points in the paint and 11 fast-break points helped secure the win.
Gavyn Elkamil scored 17 points, making 5 of 9 field goal attempts, and added five rebounds.
Jaden Taylor led the team with 25 points, converting 8 of 16 field goals and 9 of 12 free throws.
Brayden Williams contributed 11 points, including two 3-pointers, and collected three rebounds.
Isaiah Atwater added seven points and recorded three assists while gathering five rebounds.
The game began with both teams exchanging leads and maintaining a tight contest, with neither side able to pull away decisively. Missouri Southern faced pressure early as SWOSU took advantage by scoring in the paint and capitalizing on fast breaks. Despite this, Southern kept the game close by effectively converting free throws and making timely defensive stops.
Taylor played a significant role, scoring consistently to keep the team in contention. As the half progressed, Elkamil contributed crucial points, including a three-pointer that tied the game at 29-29. However, SWOSU managed to edge ahead with a late three-pointer as the first 20 minutes concluded, closing the half with a 37–33 lead over Missouri Southern.
The second half began with MSSU quickly tying the game at 38-38 with a three-pointer from Williams. Despite SWOSU briefly gaining the upper hand, Missouri Southern responded with a series of scoring plays, including a jumper by Taylor at 10:56 to maintain a close contest.
In the closing minutes, the Lions showcased resilience as Atwater's jumper at 2:19 put them ahead 70-65. The home team maintained their edge through strategic free-throw shooting, with Taylor securing two crucial free throws with six seconds remaining, ensuring a 77-76 final score.
MSSU next hits the road to face Oklahoma Baptist and Maryville Nov. 20-21 in neutral matchups at John Lance Arena/Whetzel Court in Pittsburg, Kansas.
