Sedalia) It was anything but pretty. But for the MSU-West Plains Grizzlies, it was the result that mattered as the Grizz posted a 76-73 victory Wednesday night in Region 16 play against State Fair at Sedalia.
For a team averaging just over 100 points per game, it was a frustrating experience. By halftime, the Grizzlies had just 30 points on 30% shooting. Luckily, the Roadrunners didn’t shoot much better in taking a 35-30 lead at the half.
The second half proved to be a different matter as the Grizzlies shifted into a different gear and turned up the heat on defense. Still, the game remained tight throughout the second half. The Grizzlies were able to grab the lead late but had trouble getting separation of more than one possession while missing key free throws that could have provided some relief.
Trailing by 3, State Fair was on the free throw line with 9 seconds left. Still needing 3 to tie, an intentional miss and offensive rebound gave the Roadrunners a final 3-point attempt to tie at the final buzzer, but the shot was off the mark, giving the Grizzlies a hard-fought road victory.
After the game, Grizzlies coach Jared Phay said it wasn’t pretty, but his team was glad to get the win.
Kansas City sophomore Martaveon Jones got the start at guard for the Grizz and turned in a great performance, leading the way with 18 points including some huge baskets late in the game. Freshman Scooter Williams had 17 while Franklyn Petion, in limited minutes, came off the bench and provided some needed toughness on the boards along with 6 points.
Lavric Mangala, 6-3 freshman from Nashville, led State Fair with 16 points.
The Grizzlies raised their record to 2-1 in region play and 7-3 overall. State Fair dropped to 5-5 and 0-3 in Region 16.
Next up for MSU-West Plains will be an early season rematch with Three Rivers Monday at the Civic Center. The Grizzlies beat the Raiders in the Region opener at Poplar Bluff, 100-90 in their best performance thus far. Game time is 7 pm.
