MARYVILLE, Mo. — The University of Central Missouri edged out the Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball squad Wednesday night in Bearcat Arena, 76-72.
The Mules improved to 13-4 overall and 4-1 in MIAA play. Northwest moved to 9-7 overall and 2-3 in league action. The Bearcat bench enjoyed a 22-2 scoring advantage over the Mules.
Despite a balanced offense with four players scoring in double digits, Northwest could not hold off Central Mo., who outscored them by 14 points in the second half.
The game commenced with
Royce Williams securing an early lead for Northwest with a 3-pointer at 19:04, assisted by
Larenz Walters. Northwest maintained a narrow edge through effective scoring in the paint, particularly with Walters contributing a layup and a free throw at 10:14 to extend their advantage to four points.
Central Mo. kept the contest tight, matching Northwest in both field goals and three-pointers, resulting in multiple lead changes and ties throughout the half. However, Northwest regained control in the final minutes, with
Mikhail Abdul-Hamid securing a layup at 00:27, ending the half ahead 35–31.
Northwest initially extended its lead with an early three-pointer from Williams at 18:23, assisted by
Jack Ratigan, pushing the score to 40–33. Despite this, Central Missouri responded with a series of successful offensive plays, leveling the game 43–43 at 14:36. The Bearcats briefly recaptured the lead with a three-pointer by
Presley Ibeh at 12:07, but Central Missouri quickly tied the game again.
As the half progressed, Northwest struggled to maintain its lead. A significant moment came when
Trey Moala converted a layup at 8:54 after a critical steal by
Aiden Gair, giving them a narrow 58–57 advantage. However, Central Missouri capitalized on a late turnover and foul, securing the win with a final free throw at 0:10. The game ended with Central Missouri on top, 76–72.
Williams led the team with 18 points, converting three of six attempts from beyond the arc and collecting seven rebounds. Moala contributed 11 points on 5-of-9 shooting, adding six rebounds to his performance. Abdul-Hamid posted 12 points, hitting two 3-pointers and finishing with three rebounds. Walters scored 10 points and dished out four assists.
Northwest will play host to No. 1-ranked and undefeated Washburn Saturday at 3:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena.
