ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - Missouri Western men's basketball (15-10, 6-8 MIAA) began the game with a strong performance, but they fell short in the end, losing 71-61 to Pittsburg State (14-9, 10-4 MIAA) on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse.
 
The opening half from Tom Smith Court was entertaining from the opening tip, as there were seven ties and three lead changes. Senior Zane Nelson's nine points and three rebounds helped the Griffons carry a 34-32 lead into the intermission.
 
Like the first half, the second began with a bang, as senior Zion Swader immediately added a spark with four points within the first minute. However, the momentum shifted in favor of the Gorillas, who outscored the Griffons 39-27 in the second half. PSU extended its lead to as much as 13 points, ultimately securing a 10-point victory.
 
Swader led the Griffons with 16 points on 7-of-11 shooting from the field. The Murfreesboro, Tennessee, native added five rebounds and two assists. Nelson (13) and senior Julius Dixon (11) also finished in double-figure scoring. Additionally, Western outscored Pitt 36-26 in the paint. 
 
On the opposing side, Pitt State had four players finish with 10+ points. Tanner Mans led the team with 13 points, while Evan Jackson (11 points) led the game with 11 rebounds.
 
Missouri Western will host the Missouri Southern Lions at the Looney Complex on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. The game's theme is 'Pink Out,' and it will also celebrate St. Joseph Appreciation Day. Fans can tune in to the broadcast on the Griffon Sports Network, available through the Varsity Network App and at GoGriffons.com/listen.