ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team claimed their first conference victory Thursday night inside the MWSU Fieldhouse as they defeated Pittsburg State 69-66.

The Griffons opened up a double digit lead to close out the first half behind 52% field goal percentage. MWSU made 6-of-8 three pointers in the half including two each from Wes Mitter and Currie Byrd.  The Griffons also took advantage of 14-1 bench points.

In the second half, Pittsburg St. was able to tie the game twice with less than four minutes remaining. The Griffons relied on back-to-back three pointers by Currie Byrd to give the Griffons a four point lead with less than a minute to go. Junior Trey Sampson kept the Gorillas from getting any closer than two. Sampson hit three of four free throws with less than 16 seconds remaining in the game. The Gorillas Jaxon Holden missed a three-pointer as time expired in the game.

The Griffons had three players in double-figures including Currie Byrd leading the team with 16 points. Mataika Koyamainavure and Cole Clearman scored 15 and 11 off the bench respectively. Koyamainavure lead the team with six rebounds while Kevin Thomas and Miles Wentzien each had five rebounds. The Griffons finished the night shooting 17-of-21 from the free throw line.

Missouri Western improves their record 3-6 and 1-2 in MIAA competition. MWSU will return home against Missouri Southern on Saturday evening at 5 p.m.

— MWSU Athletics —