ST. JOSEPH – The Missouri Western Men’s basketball team defeated Fort Hays State 74-68 Thursday night in the MWSU Fieldhouse. The win snapped a three-game skid for Missouri Western as they improve to 6-12 and 4-8 in the MIAA.

Missouri Western never trailed by more than six and never led by more than nine. The game was tied six times and the lead changed 11 times. Missouri Western shot 47 percent from the field, 47.6 percent from three-point range and 84.2 percent at the free throw line.

The Griffons were led by Xavier Newson’s career-high 25 points on 10-17 shooting. Trey Sampson added 21 points on 4-8 shooting, all three-point attempts. Kevin Thomas led the Griffons with eight rebounds. Aaron Emmanuel had a team-high four assists to go with his four points.

Missouri Western is back at home Saturday as they host Nebraska-Kearney at 5:00 p.m.

— MWSU Athletics —