The MBU men's basketball team faced AMC foe, and NAIA #24 ranked, Park University for the second time in nine days on Thursday. The Spartans lost the contest 86-63, to drop to 11-12, 3-5 in the American Midwest Conference.
Though the Spartan defense had a much tighter handle on the Pirates this time around, Park shot 49% from the field to get the 23 point victory. The Pirate pressure nabbed 21 steals to help create their offensive energy.
Missouri Baptist shot a commendable 40% from the field, but didn't get nearly as many attempts at the bucket as the Pirates (76 attempts to 55). Four Spartans did manage to score in double-digits.
Kyle Hubbard led the Spartans with 19 points and 13 rebounds.
Rondu Stevens scored 13 points,
Jordan Flora scored 11, and
Brandon Roberson added 10 points and four assists.
Missouri Baptist currently shares fourth place in the American Midwest Conference with Williams Baptist College. Park sits in second (15-7, 8-1) behind AMC unbeaten McKendree.
The Spartans will return to the hardwood on Saturday, February 6th for a non-conference match-up against Logan University. MBU will return to AMC play Thursday, February 11th, when they travel to Harris-Stowe State University.
