JOPLIN, Mo. — Missouri Southern (16-10, 10-7 Mid-America Intercollegiate) secured a 101-92 victory over Neb.-Kearney (13-16, 6-12 Mid-America Intercollegiate) at Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium. Missouri Southern built a commanding lead with a 52-point first half and maintained their advantage despite the Lopers' 55-point effort in the second half. Missouri Southern capitalized on their free-throw opportunities, converting 27 of 38 attempts, which contributed to their overall scoring advantage.
Colin Ruffin scored 22 points, connecting on 10 of 14 field goal attempts, and added nine rebounds and two steals.
Jaden Taylor matched Ruffin with 22 points, converting 12 of 18 free throws and dishing out eight assists.
Gavyn Elkamil contributed 17 points, making five of seven field goals and pulling down five rebounds. Tyrone Wright posted 15 points, shooting six for nine from the field, and collected nine rebounds.
The first half opened with Missouri Southern setting the pace early through consistent shooting and effective ball movement. Taylor contributed significantly, dishing out multiple assists and scoring key points.
Prince Agbaeze and Ruffin also played pivotal roles, combining for early points that helped maintain momentum. As the half progressed, Missouri Southern capitalized on their defensive rebounds, allowing them to extend their lead. The team executed well in the paint and from beyond the arc, highlighted by Elkamil's crucial 3-pointer at 6:02. Southern closed the half strong, holding a 52-37 lead over the Lopers.
The second half began with Southern maintaining its lead, despite the Lopers' attempts to close the gap. Taylor contributed significantly with scoring from the free throw line and a jumper, while Wright added a dunk to keep the momentum on the home side. Nebraska-Kearney responded with a series of 3-pointers, but the Lions' defense managed to hold them off. As the half progressed, Ruffin's efforts, including a crucial 3-pointer, extended the Lions' lead. The team capitalized on free throw opportunities, maintaining a steady scoring pace. Despite Nebraska-Kearney's pressure, MSSU closed the half strong, leading 101-92 at the end of the game.
Taylor's performance was pivotal as Southern maintained its lead throughout the second half. Taylor contributed with a strong scoring effort, including a series of successful free throws at key moments. Ruffin added to the offensive push with a critical 3-pointer at 7:02, extending the home team's advantage over the Lopers. Despite the visitors closing the gap with consistent shooting from beyond the arc, Southern held firm, finishing the half with a 101-92 victory, securing the win.
