WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – Missouri Baptist University men's basketball returned to the win column on Saturday afternoon, defeating Williams Baptist University 94-77 behind a 24-point double-double from senior forward Austin Lewis.
With the victory, the Spartans improved to 7-9 overall, 5-4 on the road, and 4-2 in American Midwest Conference (AMC) play.
Lewis led the charge, shooting 8-for-13 from the field, including a hot 4-for-5 from beyond the arc, and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. He rounded out his double-double performance with 11 rebounds, one assist, and a block.
Three other Spartans reached double figures in scoring. Evan Palmquist contributed 17 points, Taiden Conner added 16 points along with nine rebounds, four assists, and three steals, and Preston Fortner chipped in 12 points.
The Spartans' offensive firepower was highlighted by 45.5% shooting from the floor, 35% shooting from three-point range, and 34 second-chance points generated from 27 offensive rebounds. MBU also converted 62.5% of its free throws.
Despite Williams Baptist outshooting MBU with a 50% shooting percentage, 48.5% from beyond the arc, and 83.3% from the charity stripe, the Spartans capitalized on second-chance opportunities and turnovers to secure the win. MBU scored 57 points off the bench, 40 points in the paint, and 27 points off Eagles' turnovers.
"Great team win on the road after a tough loss," said head coach Taylor Jarvis. "The guys showed toughness in how they responded today after the one-point road loss Thursday. We had our season high in offensive rebounds and assists, moved the ball well, and played aggressive basketball."
Jarvis also praised several stout performances. "Austin Lewis was phenomenal today, and Evan Palmquist backed up Thursday's performance with another all-conference level outing. Courtland Soll has been stepping up as of late, doing a lot of the little things that make a big difference. Like always, I'm proud of the guys, grateful to be their coach, and blessed by God to be in a position to lead. Go Spartans!"
The Spartans will kick off a three-game homestand on Tuesday against Harris-Stowe State University. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
