BRADENTON, Fla. – Missouri Baptist University men's basketball closed out 2024 on a high note, defeating New College of Florida, 107-98, on New Year's Eve. Four Spartans scored in double figures to help secure the road win.
With the victory, MBU improved to 6-8 overall and 4-3 away from home. The 107 points marked the team's highest offensive output since scoring 115 against UHSP in January of last season.
Junior guard Evan Palmquist led the Spartans with a team-high 27 points, four rebounds, and one assist. Palmquist was efficient from the field, shooting 8-of-11, and made 9-of-10 free-throw attempts. Thai Elder recorded a double-double, scoring 26 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, while adding two assists and one block. Elder went 13-of-15 from the charity stripe and 6-of-15 from the field.
Breven McMullen chipped in 21 points on 9-of-14 shooting and added two rebounds and one block. Rounding out MBU's double-figure scorers was Austin Lewis, who contributed 13 points, four rebounds, two assists, and a block.
As a team, the Spartans shot a season-best 55.2% from the field, including 9-of-20 from beyond the arc, and converted 34-of-39 free throws.
New College posted a strong offensive effort, shooting 42.3% from the field, 15-of-32 from 3-point range, and 17-of-20 from the free-throw line.
The game featured five lead changes, with the Spartans taking their largest lead of 12 points in the final 24 seconds. MBU held a 54-47 advantage at halftime and narrowly outscored the Banyans, 53-51, in the second half to secure the victory.
"Fast, energetic, and together. Great team win," said Spartans head coach Taylor Jarvis. "We didn't have any issues scoring the ball but could have used a few more stops. Andrew (New College's head coach) did a great job putting pressure on our defense. His guys played hard and shot the ball well. They are a very good team and well-coached.
"As for our guys, I'm extremely proud of their focus, energy, and effort."
MBU returns to action on Tuesday, hosting Harris-Stowe State University for a conference matchup at the Carl & Deloris Petty SRC. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
