LIBERTY, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team (5-4) used a balanced offensive effort and solid team defense to pick up a road win over William Jewell 78-75 on Monday night. The win snaps a three-game losing skid and wraps up the Griffon’s five-game road trip.

NOTABLES

• There were 19 lead changes and five ties throughout the game. The Cardinals held the lead for over 27 minutes, compared to just nine for the Griffons.
• Both teams struggled offensively in the first half, as the Griffons trailed 34-33 going into halftime. Missouri Western held William Jewell to just 37 percent shooting in the first half.
• Bryan Hudson sank a three pointer with 14:24 remaining to cap off a 10-3 run and give the Griffons their first lead of the second half.
• William Jewell lost its final lead of the game at 10:24 remaining after Jonathan Mesmacque knocked down a pair of free throws.
• Hudson’s dunk stretched the lead to double digits with under two minutes remaining off of a Tyrell Carroll assist.
• Four different Griffons scored in double figures in the win.
• Free-throw shooting is one area the Griffons can improve after Monday’s win. The Griffons shot just 57 percent from the line.

LEADERS

• Lavon Hightower scored 17 points on just seven shot attempts.
• Hudson also finished with 17 points, his fifth-straight game in double-figures.
• Tyrell Carroll added 15 points. His seven assists are the most by a Griffon this season.
• Mesmacque was one rebound shy of a double-double, finishing with 12 points and nine boards.

UP NEXT

• Missouri Western will have nine days before its next game.
• The Griffons will host Lindenwood (6-3) in the MIAA opener on Dec. 6.
• The Lions defeated NAIA institution Culver Stockton 95-53 in their last game.

— MWSU Athletics —