Box Score

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Big free throws in the final seconds helped MIAA-leading, Central Oklahoma hold off a comeback effort by the Griffon men Saturday in the fieldhouse. A free throw from Cortrez Colbert tied the game at 57 with 1:15 remaining. It was the first time the Griffons had not trailed since nine minutes into the first half. The Bronchos made five free throws down the stretch to complete the 62-57 victory. Missouri Western drops to 5-5 on the year and 1-2 in MIAA play.

A 14-3 run in the final 11 minutes of the first half proved to be too much for Missouri Western. The Griffons led 15:13 with just 11 minutes to go before halftime. The Griffons scored just three points the rest of the half as Central Oklahoma scored 14 to take a 27-18 lead to the break. The Bronchos stretched the lead to 10 early in the second half but Missouri Western was able to claw back before ultimately coming up short.

The Griffons shot 39 percent from the field, 13 percent from three-point range and 73 percent from the line. They forced 22 UCO turnovers and had 13 steals. The Bronchos dominated the boards, outrebounding the Griffons by 10.

For the second straight game, Cortrez Colbert led all players with 24 points. Colbert also finished with four rebounds and five steals. Kevin Thomas finished with 13 points and five rebounds. Dareon Jones added 12 points and four rebounds. 

Missouri Western will enjoy a break from action with their next game coming on Jan. 3 at Washburn.