(West Plains) The Moberly Greyhounds used fast starts in both halves to propel them past Missouri State University-West Plains, 116-107 at the Civic Center Monday night.
After falling behind 9-0, the Grizzlies fought back to take a 58-57 lead at halftime. A steal and layup at the buzzer by freshman Scooter Williams put the Grizzlies on top with momentum at the break.
But the second half began the same as the first with sophomore guard Dezi Jones leading the Hounds attack, finishing with 27 points.
Moberly was hot from the field and the free throw line. The Greyhounds made 29 of 32 free throws while the Grizzlies made 30 of 45.
In the second half the Grizzlies closed the gap to one possession on a couple occasions but couldn’t get the big bucket to get over the hump.
Scooter Williams led all scorers with a career high 30 points. Jessie Zarsuela, one the leading scorers in the nation, averaging 25 per game, scored 26. The Grizzly bench outscored Moberly 36-26 and were plus-7 in turnovers.
After the game, Grizzlies coach Jared Phay gave credit to Moberly for playing well and pointed out the Grizzlies and Greyhounds are very similar.
Next up will be a trip Wednesday for a Region 16 game with State Fair. Game time is 7:30 on Hot Country KDY.
