Joplin, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team came close to a redemption win in Joplin, but ultimately fell short in an 83-77 loss at Missouri Southern.

The Griffons erased a six-point halftime deficit to take a 73-71 lead with 4:29 to go. Missouri Southern would outscore the Griffons 12-6 over the final four minutes. Free throws by Missouri Southern down the stretch proved to be the difference with the Lions finishing 31-44 from the line while the Griffons went 22-30.

The Griffons finished shooting 42 percent from the field, 28 percent from three-point range and 73.3 percent from the free throw line. Cortrez Colbert led all scorers with 17 points and six rebounds. Kevin Thomas finished with a double-double, scoring 12 and pulling down 14 rebounds. Currie Byrd had 11 points and Hans Thun added 10.

Missouri Western sits at 10-12 overall and 6-9 in MIAA play as they return home to face Lincoln this Wednesday.

— MWSU Sports Information —