ST. LOUIS - In a midweek matchup, the Spartans took on Hannibal-LaGrange University last night (Jan 16). Originally scheduled for a Saturday showdown, the game was rescheduled, but that didn't dampen the Spartans' readiness to face the Trojans.

MBU had a strong start to the game, swiftly putting up six points for an early lead. Defensively, MBU held off HLGU, not allowing a single point until three minutes in. After the Trojans managed to score, Connor Redrow made a statement, shutting down any momentum HLGU was trying to build. Kristian Davis, newly on the court, drove into the paint and passed to Redrow, who, surrounded by HLGU players, slammed home a dunk effortlessly.

For a brief period, the Trojans chipped away at the Spartans' lead. At 14:20, HLGU managed to tie it up, but a quick layup from Courtland Soll halted their momentum. With quick hands, the junior poked the ball away from his opponent and proceeded to score a layup. Shortly after, HLGU took the lead with a three-pointer, but Bastien Page answered back with one of his own. This marked the turning point as the Spartans steadily built up their lead for the rest of the half.

With a 16-point lead entering the second half, MBU was in clear control. Keyyaun Batchman opened the half with a score on a fast break, receiving a pass from D'Mari Wiltz. Nico Hill then scored the next six points for the Spartans, making a layup, jump shot, and a couple of free throws.

MBU maintained the lead, scoring steadily with contributions from various players. The team capitalized on fast breaks in the later part of the half, including a play by Hill. Applying pressure on defense, Wiltz caused a turnover, sending the ball to Hill, who executed a dunk, reigniting motivation in the Spartans. Afterward, the Spartans hovered around a 20-point lead for the remainder of the game.

With a commanding 21-point lead, MBU secured a resounding 83-62 victory over HLGU. Every player who stepped on the court contributed to MBU's win. Nico Hill led the team with 20 points and five rebounds, while Kristian Davis showcased a strong performance with 17 points and five rebounds. Connor Redrow dominated the boards with ten rebounds but fell two points shy of a double-double.

The Spartans will be on the road for their next six games, starting tomorrow (Jan 18) against Harris-Stowe State University at 7:30 PM.