The late free throws finally fell, and the Missouri Western men finally found a close win.

The Griffons, who’ve lost 8 games by 6 points or less, held on for a 74-70 victory Saturday at Truman State.

Western, which has struggled from the free throw line this season,  went 7-8 from the charity stripe in the 1:04 to seal the road victory.  The victory avenges an overtime home loss to the Bulldogs in early January.

The Griffons dished out 17 assists, and had 5 players score at least 9 points, led by Alex Tuluka-Mfumpembe’s career high 17.  Tuluka was 6-8 from the field and 3-3 from 3-point land.

Lavonte Douglas added 14 points and 9 rebounds for the Griffons, who improve to 8-16 (3-15 MIAA).

Truman falls to 7-19 and 4-13 in the conference.

The Western win avenges 87-86 overtime home loss to the Bulldogs on January 11th.

The Griffons return home Wednesday, February 22nd for an MIAA date with Central Missouri.  Tip-time is set for 7:30 pm.

— MWSU Sports Information —