TISHOMINGO, Okla. — The Murray State College men's basketball team rallied in the second half to defeat NOC-Tonkawa, 86-78, Thursday night on Sophomore Day, securing a share of the Region 2 regular season championship and the No. 1 seed in the Region Tournament.
 
With the victory, Murray State finishes the regular season with an impressive 22-8 overall record and a 11-5 mark in conference play.
 
Before the game, the Murray State College men's basketball sophomores - Abeeng Agot, Devon MacCollister, Malachi Schilreff, Ashton Smith, and Oliver Wilson - were honored for their dedication and hard work while wearing the Aggie uniform.
 
NOC-Tonkawa held a 33-30 lead at halftime and extended the advantage to 38-32 early in the second half. The Aggies responded quickly, putting together an 8-0 run to take a 40-38 lead and shift momentum.
 
The contest remained tightly contested throughout the middle portion of the half. Murray State held a narrow 56-53 lead with 8:30 remaining before delivering the decisive push. The Aggies used an 11-4 run to create their first double-digit lead of the night, giving them control of the game down the stretch.
 
NOC-Tonkawa continued to battle, but Murray State maintained its advantage and closed out the 86-78 victory.
 
Ashton Smith led the Aggies with a game-high 32 points, knocking down seven three-pointers while shooting 11-of-17 from the field. In addition, Smith grabbed eight rebounds in the contest. Abeeng Agot recorded a strong all-around performance with 19 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks and three steals.
 
Malachi Schilreff tallied a near triple double as he contributed nine points, nine rebounds, and a team-high nine assists. Haki Muhammad II added 13 points off the bench, while Tayesen Combs finished with 10 points.
 
Murray State shot an efficient 54.4 percent from the field and connected on 12 three-pointers in the win.
 
Murray State begins play in the Region 2 Tournament starting on Thursday, March 12. Murray State is the No. 1 seed and will play against the No. 8 seed NOC - Enid. Tipoff scheduled for 6:00 p.m.
 
Assistant Sports Information Director: Jeremy Wagner | jwagner@mscok.edu
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