JOPLIN, Mo. — Missouri Southern men's basketball fell to Central Oklahoma, 87-79, Saturday evening at Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium.
The Lions, who trailed by four at halftime, were unable to overcome the Bronchos' advantage at the free-throw line, where UCO converted 22 of 27 attempts. MSSU led in steals with 10, contributing to 19 points off turnovers, but it was not enough to secure the victory.
Southern is now 6-3 overall and 1-1 in MIAA competition. The Bronchos now hold a record of 7-4 overall and 1-1 in league play.
Gavyn Elkamil scored 15 points, including four 3-pointers, and collected a team-high seven rebounds.
Tyrone Wright Jr. led all scorers with 18 points and added two blocks. He has posted 18 or more points in each of the last two contests to open MIAA play.
Colin Ruffin recorded six assists and tallied two steals with seven points.
Jaden Taylor finished with 15 points, converting all three of his free-throw attempts.
MSSU opened the first half with an early surge, as Wright Jr. contributed key points in the paint, including a dunk and a layup, to give the home team an initial 4-0 edge. Ruffin also provided significant support with his assists, helping Southern maintain momentum.
As the half progressed, UCO responded, capitalizing on turnovers to shift the lead with a series of fast-break points. Despite a late push featuring a 3-pointer by
Isaiah Atwater, the Lions trailed 40–36 at the close of the first half.
The second half started with a quick turnover from UCO followed by a steal from Wright Jr., setting an aggressive tone for Southern. Elkamil capitalized on this momentum with a fast-break 3-pointer to close the gap to 40-39 early in the final period. MSSU maintained pressure with a series of defensive plays, including multiple steals that kept the Bronchos in check.
Despite some missed opportunities from both teams, Southern pulled ahead 47-45 at 16:00, with Taylor scoring a crucial jumper. The lead fluctuated as both teams exchanged baskets, but UCO edged ahead with a 3-pointer at 12:21 (57-53). Missouri Southern responded with efforts from Ruffin, who contributed with a key layup and free throws, keeping the Lions within striking distance.
However, as the half progressed, the Bronchos pulled away, extending their lead to double digits. Southern made a late push with a 3-pointer by
Brayden Williams in the final minute, but UCO maintained its advantage, closing the half with a score of 47-43 in favor of the visitors for an 87-79 win.
MSSU next hosts Quincy on Dec. 12 in the Lions final home game of 2025. Tip is set for 5:30 p.m., CT.
