MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Missouri Western Griffons topped the Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team Saturday at Bearcat Arena, 84-65.

Despite forcing eight steals, the Bearcats struggled with ball control, committing 20 turnovers in the game. The Griffons had a 48-26 scoring advantage in the paint as they improved to 14-8 overall and 6-5 in MIAA play. Northwest is 10-12 overall and 3-8 in league action.

Northwest Missouri State opened the first half with a quick defensive play as Royce Williams stole the ball, leading to Jack Ratigan's layup. Despite this, the Griffons took an early lead, highlighted by Gavin Hershberger's fast break 3-pointer at 16:09. The Bearcats responded with a series of plays, including Robert Garcia's 3-pointer assisted by Larenz Walters at 9:02, closing the gap significantly. The half ended with Northwest Missouri State trailing slightly, 38–35.

The Bearcats struggled to contain Missouri Western's offense in the second half, highlighted by a significant scoring run that widened the deficit. The Griffons' efficient shooting and defensive pressure led to a 46-point half, while the Bearcats managed 30 points. Despite efforts from Walters, who contributed with a 3-pointer at 1:29 and again in the final seconds, Northwest Missouri State faced challenges in reducing turnovers and securing rebounds. The half ended with Missouri Western leading 84–65, concluding the game.

Walters scored 15 points, converting 5 of 10 field goals, and added five rebounds. Williams contributed with his first career double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while also tallying three 3-pointers and two steals. Garcia led with 16 points on 7 of 10 shooting, adding three steals to his performance. Presley Ibeh recorded nine points and two blocks, rounding out a strong defensive showing.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats will face Central Oklahoma at home on Thursday, Feb. 5. The game is set to tip off at 7:30 p.m.