JOPLIN, Mo. — Missouri Southern men's basketball (13-9, 7-6 MIAA) fell to Northwest Missouri (12-13, 5-9 MIAA) 81-74 Thursday at Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium.
The game marked a tight contest with multiple lead changes, but the Bearcats edged ahead with a stronger shooting performance, hitting 10 three-pointers. The Lions excelled in the paint with 40 points and out-rebounded NWMSU 34-30, yet it was not enough to secure the win.
MSSU moves to 13-9 in 2025-26 and 7-6 in MIAA league competition.
Colin Ruffin scored 18 points and collected two steals, contributing significantly to the offensive effort
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Jaden Taylor led the scoring with 20 points and added four assists, showcasing his effectiveness on the court. It marked his team-leading ninth 20-point game of the 2025-26 campaign.
Gavyn Elkamil recorded nine rebounds and contributed eight points, providing support in both scoring and defense.
Tyrone Wright Jr. finished with 12 points, efficiently converting five of seven field goal attempts.
Missouri Southern started strong with
Brayden Williams hitting an early three-pointer to set the pace. Ruffin added to the momentum with a layup and a jumper, helping establish an early lead. However, NWMSU responded with effective long-range shooting, highlighted by Aiden Gair's three-pointer, allowing it to stay competitive.
Midway through the half, MSSU managed to regain some control with contributions from Elkamil and
Isaiah Atwater, keeping the score tight. The home team made efficient use of its opportunities in the paint, scoring 20 points in that area and receiving 14 points off the bench.
As the half drew to a close, the Lions faced a scoring surge from the Bearcats, culminating in a fast-break layup by Gair, which extended the visitors' lead. Despite a late timeout and a layup by Taylor, the half ended with Southern trailing 39–33.
In the second half, the Lions struggled to keep pace with NWMSU, despite a strong effort on the boards. Wright Jr. made an impact with offensive rebounds and second-chance points, while Taylor consistently found the basket with mid-range jumpers. Atwater and Ruffin also contributed with key plays, including a late 3-pointer by Elkamil.
The Lions managed to close the gap to within one point at one juncture, but the Bearcats responded quickly each time, maintaining a slight edge. The game ended with Southern trailing 81-74, as NWMSU narrowly outscored the home team 42-41 in the half.
MSSU next hosts Missouri Western State University Saturday at Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium. Tip is set for 3:30 p.m., CT.
