TOPEKA, Kan. — Missouri Southern State University (16-12, 10-9 Mid-America Intercollegiate) fell to Washburn University (28-1, 18-1 Mid-America Intercollegiate) 84-74 at Lee Arena. Missouri Southern was competitive through the first half, trailing by just five points at halftime. The team managed to connect on 10 of 20 three-point attempts, but struggled with turnovers, committing 20 in the game. Washburn capitalized on these mistakes, scoring 28 points off turnovers to maintain its lead in this conference matchup.
Missouri Southern has a record of 16-12 overall and 10-9 in Mid-America Intercollegiate play. Washburn stands at 28-1 overall and 18-1 in Mid-America Intercollegiate competition.
Isaiah Atwater scored 22 points, connecting on 4 of 5 attempts from beyond the arc, while also contributing four assists.
Gavyn Elkamil added 18 points, hitting four 3-pointers and securing two steals.
Jaden Taylor finished with 15 points and pulled down six rebounds. Tyrone Wright recorded two blocks and nearly achieved a double-double with nine rebounds.
Missouri Southern State began the game by keeping the score close, aided by
Jaden Taylor's early jumper. The team capitalized on its opportunities in the paint, collecting 14 points from inside the arc. Despite turnovers, the visitors managed to tie the score multiple times, with significant contributions from
Gavyn Elkamil and
Isaiah Atwater, who both connected on three-pointers. The Lions faced a strong defensive effort from Washburn, which recorded 10 steals in the half. However, Missouri Southern State's bench kept the game competitive, contributing three points to maintain the pace. The half closed with Missouri Southern State trailing slightly at 48–43.
Missouri Southern State opened the second half with a scoring drive initiated by
Isaiah Atwater's 3-pointer at 18:35, cutting into Washburn's lead. Missouri Southern State continued to challenge defensively, with
Colin Ruffin and
Jaden Taylor both contributing with key defensive rebounds. Their efforts resulted in a tie at 61-61 midway through the half, following a pair of free throws by Taylor. Missouri Southern State briefly gained the lead on a layup by
Colin Ruffin at 7:00, but Washburn responded with a series of 3-pointers, pulling ahead. Despite Missouri Southern State's efforts to close the gap, including a late 3-pointer by
Gavyn Elkamil at 2:13, Washburn maintained control. The second half concluded with Missouri Southern State trailing, 84-74.
Missouri Southern will now turn its focus to the MIAA Conference Championships, where the Lions will continue postseason play next week.
