ST. LOUIS — Missouri Baptist University men's basketball opened the 2025–26 season with an 80–71 victory over UHSP on Saturday evening at Maryville University, securing a strong start behind balanced scoring and efficient interior play.

"We found a way. We were down a few guys. We a limited rotation and some of our young guys stepped up and played good minutes," said head coach Taylor Jarvis. "It's great to get the first win of the year."

Preston Fortner and Tristan Wiggins led the Spartans (1–0) with 16 points each. Fortner added six assists and three steals, while Wiggins knocked down two three-pointers and contributed two assists and a steal.

Austin Lewis provided 12 points, five rebounds, two blocks, and two steals, while Merquiche Lewis matched the backcourt production with 16 points and two boards. Alex Wineholt anchored the interior with a team-high 11 rebounds and eight points off the bench, helping MBU control the glass 34–20.

The Spartans shot 53.8 percent from the field and outscored UHSP 44–28 in the paint, building an early lead and maintaining control throughout both halves. MBU also forced 14 turnovers and collected 11 steals while holding UHSP to 27.8 percent from three.

MBU led 40–29 at the break and extended the margin to as many as 18 early in the second half before UHSP mounted late pressure behind 42 bench points, but the Spartans closed the game at the free-throw line to seal the win.

Up Next

MBU heads to Brescia University in Owensboro, Kentucky on Tuesday. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.