WICHITA, Kan. — Missouri Southern men's basketball (12-8, 6-5 MIAA) secured a 93-75 victory over Newman (5-17, 1-12 MIAA) Thursday evening at Fugate Gymnasium.
The Lions built a commanding 24-point lead by halftime, scoring 50 points in the first half while holding the Jets to 26. MSSU capitalized on turnovers, converting 21 points off turnovers and dominating in the paint with 46 points.
Southern now holds a 12-8 overall record and is 6-5 in MIAA play after the Lions' third-straight win. Newman has a 5-17 overall record with a 1-12 mark in league competition.
Colin Ruffin scored a career-best 26 points on a stellar 10 of 15 shooting (67 percent) and added six rebounds. It marked his third-straight double-digit point game. Ruffin was one of five Lions in double-figures scoring Thursday.
Isaiah Atwater posted 18 points, making four 3-pointers, and recorded a personal-high six steals in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas.
Gavyn Elkamil contributed 10 points and dished out a career-high 10 assists alongside three steals for his first double-double of the campaign.
Jaden Taylor added 15 points (fourth-straight double-digit game) while
Tyrone Wright Jr. contributed 10
Hunter Fitch collected a career-best matching 10 rebounds (third time in 2025-26) and added seven points.
MSSU opened the first half with strong offensive play, spearheaded by Ruffin's early jumper and 3-pointer. The team capitalized on turnovers, with Atwater and Elkamil contributing assists that maintained scoring momentum. Southern's defensive efforts were underscored by six steals, limiting NU's scoring opportunities effectively.
Throughout the half, the Lions extended their lead by executing an efficient offense, shooting 19-for-32 from the field, including six 3-pointers. The MSSU bench added 19 points, showcasing depth and versatility. By the end of the half, Southern held a commanding lead, closing the first half ahead 50–26.
Ruffin set the tone early in the second half with a layup assisted by
Brayden Williams, extending the lead. Ruffin continued to impact the game, contributing with offensive rebounds and a series of field goals, maintaining momentum for the Lions. Atwater added to the offensive effort with a three-pointer, and Wright Jr.'s defensive rebounds and subsequent scoring plays kept the pressure on the Jets.
Despite NU's attempts to close the gap with fast-break points and three-pointers, the Lions' consistent scoring, including contributions from Elkamil and a late steal and dunk by Atwater, solidified their control. The contest ended with Southern victorious, 93–75.
The victory over Newman is Missouri Southern's second of the season.
MSSU next heads to Emporia State for a Saturday showdown against the Hornets. Tip is set for 3:30 p.m., CT from Emporia, Kansas.
