JOPLIN, Mo. — Missouri Southern men's basketball (11-8, 5-5 MIAA) secured a 77-64 victory over Northeastern State (11-9, 4-7 MIAA) Saturday at Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium.
MSSU established control early, leading by seven at halftime, and maintained its advantage with strong inside play, outscoring the Riverhawks 44-34 in the paint. The Lions also capitalized on turnovers, converting 11 steals into 14 points, which helped secure the win. NSU struggled with ball security, committing 16 turnovers throughout the contest.
MSSU improved to 11-8 overall and 5-5 in MIAA play with its second win of the week. NSU now stands at 11-9 overall and 4-7 in conference competition.
Colin Ruffin scored 19 points and recorded five steals, contributing significantly to the defensive effort. He has now scored in double-figures in each home game this week.
Jaden Taylor added 16 points while dishing out six assists. It marked his third-straight double-digit scoring game.
Storm Gilchrist was efficient from the field, posting a season-best 10 points on 5-of-6 shooting in his first game back from injury since Dec. 4, 2025, against Rogers State.
Isaiah Atwater added nine points and collected two steals in the contest.
MSSU opened the game with a strong offensive showing, accumulating points in the paint and capitalizing on second-chance opportunities.
Gavyn Elkamil and Taylor contributed significantly, with Elkamil scoring multiple layups and Taylor adding vital points from the free-throw line. The team's defensive efforts were highlighted by five steals, which helped maintain momentum.
As the first half progressed, the Lions extended their lead through effective fast breaks, with Taylor and
Daniel Halldorsson securing defensive rebounds to transition quickly into offense. Southern closed the half with a robust scoring run from the bench, finishing with a 43–36 advantage over NSU.
Missouri Southern maintained its advantage in the second half, starting with a layup by Ruffin at 19:32 to set the early tone. The team capitalized on turnovers, with Atwater and Ruffin both contributing steals that led to scoring opportunities. The Lions built momentum with a 12-point stretch, highlighted by
Prince Agbaeze's dunk assisted by Ruffin, extending the lead further.
The Lions continued to pressure the Riverhawks, with Taylor and Gilchrist contributing key points in the paint. Southern's defense was also pivotal, forcing 10 turnovers and generating six steals, which contributed to the scoring opportunities. The game concluded with Missouri Southern victorious, 77-64.
With the win, MSSU matched its win total from 2024-25.
The Lions next hit the road, facing Newman on Thursday, Feb. 5 and heading to Emporia State on Saturday, Feb. 7.
