PITTSBURG -- The Pittsburg State University men's basketball team outscored Arkansas Tech University 16-3 to open the second half to build a double-digit lead then hold on down the stretch for a 73-68 victory Wednesday (Dec. 31).

The Gorillas (6-4) picked up their fifth straight win in defeating the Wonder Boys (6-6) for the second time on the season. Pitt State also claimed a 76-56 road win over ATU on Nov. 19.

Devon Branch led four Pitt State players in double figures with 18 points. Josiah Gustafson added 13 points, while Lamine Dieng and Trevory Gregory contributed 10 apiece. Javis Flynn also chipped in with nine points, five points and four assists.

Mike Balogun led all scorers with 21 points for the Wonder Boys. Darrick Little added 16 points.

The Gorillas converted 27 of 37 free throws in the game, outscoring the Wonder Boys, 27-16, from the charity stripe.

ATU made 10 of 25 3-pointers to offset a 41.2 percent shooting day (21 of 51).

Pitt State will continue a three-game homestand Saturday (Jan. 3) by hosting MIAA rival Lindenwood University at 3:30 p.m.