PITTSBURG -- The Pittsburg State University men's basketball team scored the game's first 14 points and rushed out to a wide margin before holding on for a 79-68 victory over Fort Hays State University Saturday (Jan. 23) at John Lance Arena/Whetzel Court.

The Gorillas (6-7, 6-7 MIAA) led 18-2 over the Tigers (4-8, 4-8 MIAA) and ultimately stretched their margin to 32 points, 53-21, at the intermission on the strength of 69 percent shooting from the floor (20-29) in the first 20 minutes of play.

FHSU battled back in the second half, outscoring Pitt State 47-26 down the stretch to bring the game to the final 11-point margin.

Quentin Hardrict Jr. led three Pitt State players in double figures with 15 points, while Bobby Arthur-Williams Jr. added 14 points and a game high eight rebounds. R.J. Forney also contributed 12 points.

The Tigers got a game high 19 points from Jordan Pumphrey and 16 more from Quinten Rock.

The Gorillas will travel to Tahlequah, Okla., to take on MIAA rival Northeastern State University next Thursday (Jan. 28).