ATCHISON, Kan. — Missouri Baptist University men's basketball surged in the second half Saturday afternoon, rallying for an 80–78 Heart of America Athletic Conference road victory over Benedictine College inside Ralph Nolan Gymnasium.
The Spartans improved to 10–1 overall and 5–1 in Heart play, outscoring the Ravens 52–39 after halftime to secure their fifth conference win of the season.
Javaris Moye led the way with a game-high 25 points on 8-of-11 shooting, adding nine free throws, six rebounds, four steals and two blocks in an all-around performance. Drew Kegerreis followed with 14 points, knocking down four 3-pointers, while Isaiah Dixon chipped in 13 points and four rebounds. Preston Fortner added 10 points and three assists, and Merquiche Lewis contributed six points, six rebounds and two assists.
MBU shot 54.2 percent (26 of 48) from the floor and was dominant after the break, connecting on 72.7 percent (16 of 22) in the second half. The Spartans also went 20 of 30 from the free-throw line and finished 57.1 percent (8 of 14) from beyond the arc, helping offset Benedictine's 12 made 3-pointers.
First Half
Benedictine controlled the opening half behind hot perimeter shooting, building a lead of as many as 10 points midway through the period. The Ravens knocked down seven 3-pointers before the break, while MBU struggled to find an offensive rhythm.
Despite the slow start, the Spartans stayed within striking distance behind early baskets from Moye and timely shooting from Kegerreis. Benedictine carried a 39–28 advantage into halftime.
Second Half
Missouri Baptist flipped the script after the break, opening the half with renewed defensive energy and improved offensive flow. Moye attacked downhill repeatedly, while Kegerreis continued to stretch the floor from long range.
MBU gradually chipped away at the deficit and regained the lead in the closing minutes. Free-throw shooting proved decisive down the stretch, as the Spartans converted key attempts to hold off a late Benedictine push and seal the two-point road win.
Up Next
MBU returns to action Tuesday evening, traveling to Bethel University for a nonconference matchup. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m.
