MARYVILLE, Mo. — The No. 1-ranked Washburn Ichabods pulled away in the second half to score a 76-53 victory over the Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball squad Saturday at Bearcat Arena.

The Ichabods raced out to a 21-2 advantage, but the Bearcats cut Washburn's lead to 29-27 with 1:33 left in the opening half. Northwest trailed 42-40 in the second half, however Washburn out-scored the Bearcats the rest of the way, 34-13, to claim the 23-point victory.

Northwest is 9-8 overall and 2-4 in MIAA play. Washburn remained undefeated at 16-0 on the year. The Ichabods are 6-0 in league play.

The opening half saw Northwest Missouri State struggle to establish momentum as Washburn jumped to an early 10-0 lead. Aiden Gair sparked a comeback attempt with a series of 3-pointers, including one at 7:02, aided by an assist from Royce Williams, narrowing the gap to 27-18. Despite a late fast-break 3-pointer by Gair cutting the deficit to 29-27 with 1:33 remaining, Washburn maintained their edge, closing the half with a 36-27 lead.

In the second half, Northwest Mo. St. made a notable push with a series of 3-pointers, including two by Williams, narrowing the gap to 41–38 at 16:19. Despite this effort, Washburn capitalized on turnovers and free throws to extend their lead. Northwest Mo. St. struggled to maintain momentum, trailing at the end of the half with a score of 76–53.

Gair scored 18 points, including four 3-pointers, and added four assists. Williams contributed 11 points while recording six assists and three steals. Larenz Walters added eight points and collected two steals. Robert Garcia posted 12 points, making five of his eight field goal attempts.

In their next game, Northwest Missouri State will play host to Nebraska-Kearney on Thursday, Jan. 15. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at Bearcat Arena.