ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - Missouri Western men's basketball (9-4, 1-2 MIAA) had its second-half comeback bid spoiled late in the 75-69 loss to Nebraska-Kearney (3-8, 1-2 MIAA) on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse.
 
The Griffons had difficulty finding their rhythm in the first 20 minutes and fell behind by as many as 14 points, which included an 11-0 run by the Lopers that lasted until the 8:34 mark of the half. After MWSU cut the lead to seven with a layup from senior Justin Bubak, UNK responded with a buzzer-beater three-pointer from standout Ja'Bryant Hill, extending their lead to 43-33 heading to the locker room.
 
Early in the second half, Western found its rhythm on offense with a three-pointer from Kidtrell Blocker. This basket triggered a 10-0 run, that was capped off with a layup from Devin Butler that gave them a six-point lead at the 10:00 mark. However, the Lopers countered by outscoring the Griffs 17-7 to seal a 75-69 victory.
 
Senior Zane Nelson led the Griffons offensively with 19 points, along with six assists, three rebounds and a steal. Fellow senior Julius Dixon also finished in double-figure scoring with 11 points on 5-for-10 (50%) shooting.
 
The game featured six ties and five lead changes. Both teams struggled with turnovers, as MWSU committed 17 compared to UNK's 16. Additionally, Western had a tough time at the free-throw line, finishing 13-of-19 (68%).
 
Due to inclement winter weather forecasted in St. Joseph on Saturday, Missouri Western will now face Fort Hays State at 1:00 p.m. at the MWSU Fieldhouse. The game will be broadcast on the Griffon Sports Network (available via the Varsity Network App and at GoGriffons.com/listen) and the MIAA Network, with Tommy Rezac providing commentary.