TISHOMINGO, Okla. — The Murray State College men's basketball team survived a late rally to defeat Western Oklahoma State College, 71–69, on Saturday afternoon in a dramatic conference showdown in Tishomingo.
 
Murray State came out strong, jumping out to a 22–10 lead midway through the first half behind efficient shooting and strong defensive pressure. The Aggies maintained control throughout the opening period and carried a 44–33 advantage into halftime.
 
Western Oklahoma State responded quickly to open the second half, using a 6–0 run to cut the deficit to five. Murray State regrouped and pushed its lead back to 15 with nine minutes remaining, appearing to have the game in hand.
 
However, the Pioneers answered with a decisive 16–0 run over the next six minutes, taking their first lead of the contest at 66–65 and shifting the momentum late in the game.
 
The Aggies responded in the closing minutes, reclaiming the lead when Abeeng Agot converted a layup with just over three minutes remaining to make it 67–66. With time winding down and the shot clock expiring, Ashton Smith knocked down a clutch three-pointer with 24 seconds left to give Murray State a 71–66 advantage.
 
Western Oklahoma State answered with a three-pointer to cut the lead to two with eight seconds remaining and had a chance to win on the final possession, but strong Murray State defense prevented a shot attempt, sealing the 71–69 victory.
 
Murray State placed four players in double figures, led by Tayesen Combs with 18 points. Agot added 16 points and a game-high four blocks, while Smith and Devon MacCollister each contributed nine points. Smith, Combs, and Malachi Schilreff each grabbed a team-best five rebounds, while Schilreff also dished out a game-high nine assists. The Aggies shot 46.4 percent from the field and connected on 13 three-pointers in the win.

With the win, the Aggies improve to 20-7 on the season and 9-4 in Region 2 play.
 
Murray State hosts Northeastern Oklahoma A&M on Thursday, February 26. Tipoff is slated for 7:30 p.m.
 
Assistant Sports Information Director: Jeremy Wagner | jwagner@mscok.edu
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