PITTSBURG, Kan. – Missouri Southern men's basketball fell to Oklahoma Baptist, 94-82, Thursday at John Lance Arena in a neutral-site matchup to open the Pitt State Classic.
With the loss, MSSU moves to 2-1 this season while OBU improves to 3-0.
Gavyn Elkamil scored 21 points, made three 3-pointers, and recorded four steals while collecting six rebounds in his hometown.
Jaden Taylor led the Lions with 28 points on 10 of 15 shooting and added eight free throws. The reigning MIAA Athlete of the Week registered his third-straight 25-plus point game.
Tyrone Wright Jr. contributed defensively with two blocks and two steals, while also scoring 10 points and collecting four rebounds.
Brayden Williams made an impact with six points and two steals.
Storm Gilchrist added eight points and secured eight rebounds, alongside two blocks.
The first half began with Missouri Southern and Oklahoma Baptist trading baskets, resulting in frequent lead changes and ties. Taylor contributed significantly with key scoring plays, including a fastbreak layup that pushed the Lions ahead early. Elkamil added a three-pointer and a layup, keeping the score close in the initial minutes.
Despite a strong defensive showing with four blocks and eight steals, Southern faced challenges on the boards, where the Bison held an advantage with 23 total rebounds. OBU capitalized on second-chance opportunities and fastbreak points to take a lead.
The Bison gained momentum with a 10-point run, highlighted by Joshua Udoumoh's three-pointer at 14:49.
The first half concluded with Missouri Southern trailing the Bison 46-38, after a late layup by Taylor at the buzzer.
MSSU started the second half with a strong defensive play as Elkamil stole the ball immediately after a turnover by OBU, leading to a layup by Wright. Taylor contributed with a jumper that kept the Lions close early in the half. However, Oklahoma Baptist responded with a string of successful possessions, extending its lead through consistent scoring in the paint.
Despite some turnovers and fouls, the Lions made several attempts to narrow the gap. Williams hit a timely 3-pointer, followed by two successful free throws, helping to reduce the deficit. Elkamil and Taylor each added key points, contributing to a late-half push.
The Bison's consistent scoring and free throw accuracy maintained their lead, as OBU closed the second half with a 48-44 advantage for a final score of 94-82.
MSSU tallied 40 points in the paint and recorded 12 steals, but struggled with turnovers, committing 20 throughout the game. OBU capitalized on Southern's turnovers, converting them into 22 points and maintaining a lead throughout both halves.
The Lions next conclude the Pitt State Classic Friday against Maryville. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m., CT at John Lance Arena.
