JOPLIN, Mo. — Missouri Southern men's basketball (8-7, 2-4 MIAA) defeated Newman (5-10, 1-5 MIAA) 72-50 at Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium on Saturday.
MSSU took control early, leading 33-14 at halftime, and maintained its advantage by scoring 34 points in the paint. The Lions' defense forced 23 turnovers, converting them into 23 points. The Jets' second-half effort saw them score 36 points, but it was not enough to overcome the early deficit.
Southern is now 8-7 overall and 2-4 in MIAA competition. NU stands at 5-10 overall with a 1-5 record in conference play.
Colin Ruffin scored 17 points and collected nine rebounds in the game, shooting 50 percent.
Gavyn Elkamil added 12 points, converting 5 of 8 field goals.
Hunter Fitch contributed with 10 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks for his first career double-double in his first career start at MSSU.
Isaiah Atwater posted five steals and recorded five assists with eight points, impacting both ends of the court.
Missouri Southern opened the first half with a strong start, marked by Ruffin's layup at 19:35, quickly followed by a 3-pointer from
Brayden Williams. Fitch added to the momentum with a dunk at 18:30, contributing to an early 7–0 lead. The Lions maintained their momentum, building a 10-point lead by 16:47 with a 3-pointer from Elkamil.
As the half progressed, Missouri Southern continued to build on its lead with effective plays from the bench, including a triple from
Daniel Halldorsson at 3:28 and a layup by Williams at 2:08. The home team's defensive efforts were highlighted by Fitch, who recorded multiple blocks, keeping NU at bay.
MSSU capitalized on the Jets' turnovers, converting them into fast-break opportunities, with
Jaden Taylor scoring a layup at 11:32 (17-6).
The half concluded with Missouri Southern leading 33–14, establishing a significant cushion heading into the final 20 minutes.
MSSU maintained momentum in the second half, despite the Jets' early push. Ruffin led with a defensive steal and subsequent points, contributing to a steady scoring pace. The Lions' defensive efforts resulted in nine steals, effectively limiting NU's opportunities.
Key contributions came from Elkamil and Atwater, both adding to the scoring from the paint. Fitch capitalized on offensive rebounds, translating them into crucial points.
Ruffin's layup at 14:48 sparked a strong sequence, contributing to a steady scoring pace. Elkamil added a 3-pointer at 11:32 and a jumper with 3:58 remaining, helping to ensure a comfortable lead. The Lions capitalized on NU's turnovers, with Atwater and
Prince Agbaeze contributing key steals.
Despite the Jets' attempts to close the gap with 3-pointers, Missouri Southern concluded the game with a 72–50 victory.
MSSU's 22-point MIAA win is its largest conference victory since a 23-point victory over the Jets on Feb. 1, 2024.
The Lions next hit the road for a trio of MIAA contests. MSSU faces Central Oklahoma Wednesday before a Saturday matchup at Rogers State.
