Box Score
JOPLIN, Mo. — The Missouri Southern State University men's basketball team used a 15-2 run to break open a 10-point game and take control for a 94-81 victory over Pittsburg State University Tuesday (Feb. 19).
 
The Lions (21-5, 12-4 MIAA) led 69-59 over the Gorillas (14-11, 7-9 MIAA) with 9:04 remaining in the contest, but MSSU stretched the margin to 23 points over the next three minutes. Reggie Tharp's jumper capped the run and gave the Lions an 84-61 advantage with 5:58 to play.
 
Tharp finished with a game-high 23 points to pace MSSU, while Kinzer Lambert added a double-double with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Cam Martin also posted a double-double with 21 points and 10 boards for the Lions.
 
Grant Lozoya (20) and Donovan Franklin (19) combined for 39 points to lead the Gorillas. Christian Edmondson (13) and R.J. Lawrence (10) also finished in double figures, while Ray Elliott chipped in with nine.
 
The Gorillas will return to action Thursday (Feb. 21) when they travel to Emporia, Kan., to battle Emporia State Univesity at 7:30 p.m. (CST).