MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team stuffed the York Panthers Wednesday night at Bearcat Arena, 97-59.

Northwest matched its win total from a season ago by improving to 6-2. York dipped 2-8 on the year.

Northwest dominated the boards with a 53-32 rebounding advantage and forced 13 turnovers while making 15 three-pointers in the win. The Bearcat bench contributed 44 points to the winning effort.

Northwest Missouri State opened the first half with a strong defensive presence, recording seven steals and two blocks. Matthew Mayes contributed significantly, converting on free throws and securing multiple defensive rebounds. Aiden Gair was instrumental in building momentum, hitting consecutive 3-pointers at 7:48 and 7:32 to extend the lead.

Northwest Missouri State capitalized on the Panthers' turnovers, converting them into fast-break opportunities, including a dunk by Jack Ratigan at 15:52. By the end of the half, Northwest Missouri State led 41-22, displaying efficiency from beyond the arc with seven 3-pointers.

Northwest Missouri State surged ahead with a decisive 18-2 run early in the second half, highlighted by Trey Moala's free throws and Mayes' dunk at 18:18. Gair added a fast-break layup at 18:02, pushing the home team further ahead. The Bearcats maintained their dominance by shooting 61.8% from the field and outrebounding the Panthers 24-15 during the half. Ratigan's defensive efforts, including a steal at 18:22, contributed significantly to disrupting the Panthers' offense. 

Gair scored 19 points, including five 3-pointers, demonstrating his shooting efficiency. Mayes posted 13 points, including a pair of impressive slam dunks, and recorded four steals, contributing significantly on defense. Royce Williams added six assists, effectively distributing the ball to his teammates. Robert Garcia finished with 17 points, sinking three 3-pointers to bolster the offensive effort.

Looking ahead, Northwest Missouri State will begin MIAA play Tuesday in St. Joseph, Mo., against the Missouri Western Griffons. Tip is set for 7:30 p.m. at the MWSU Fieldhouse.