MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team evened its MIAA mark at 1-1 with a 77-70 home triumph over the visiting Emporia State University Hornets behind a 30-point scoring effort from senior guard Royce Williams.

The Bearcats (7-3 overall, 1-1 MIAA) converted 19 of 25 free throws, overcoming Emporia St.'s 38 points in the paint to claim the conference win. This victory marked Northwest's continued success at home, improving their home record to 3-0 this season. Emporia State dipped to 2-5 overall and 0-1 in league play.

Northwest Missouri State opened the half with a balanced offensive attack, highlighted by Williams' early scoring burst. Williams contributed a jumper and two 3-pointers within the first three minutes, helping establish a quick 9–4 lead. The Bearcats' defense also played a key role, with Williams securing a crucial steal at 14:26 that led to a fast-break layup, maintaining their momentum.

The Bearcats continued to build their lead through the efforts of Robby Garcia and Larenz Walters, who combined for three 3-pointers, extending the advantage to 36–27 by the 3:27 mark. Despite a late push from the Hornets, including a fast-break layup by Trey Redd with 0:47 remaining, the Bearcats closed out the half strong. Walters calmly sank three free throws with 0:23 left, securing a 41–35 lead at the end of the first half.

Northwest Missouri State maintained control through the second half with a decisive scoring run. Aiden Gair's three-point shot at 17:09 sparked a 9–0 stretch, pushing the lead to 50-39. Trey Moala and Williams were pivotal, contributing with key defensive rebounds and adding points in the paint. Despite Emporia State's efforts, the Bearcats concluded the half with a narrow yet steady lead, finishing 77–70.

Williams led the way with a career-high 30 points, tying his career-high with nine rebounds, sinking four 3-pointers, and converting all eight free-throw attempts. This performance marked the first time a Bearcat scored 30 points in a game since Wes Dreamer's effort against Clarke on Dec. 30, 2023. Moreover, Williams has connected on 27 consecutive free throw attempts, showcasing his consistency by going 29-of-30 on the season at the free throw line. Gair added 15 points, including three 3-pointers, while also collecting five rebounds. Matthew Mayes contributed defensively with two steals and added five points. Moala also recorded two steals and grabbed eight rebounds.

In its next game, Northwest Missouri State will face off against Missouri S&T on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 1 p.m. The matchup will take place in Maryville, Mo., with the Bearcats playing at home.