Box Score

ARKADELPHIA, Ark.- The Ouachita men's basketball team (3-1) did what a lot of people thought that they couldn't on Saturday evening, taking an early lead over Midwestern State University (3-2), who was nationally ranked just over a week ago, and holding on for an 81-77 victory.
 
Ouachita held double-digit leads for a large portion of the game, including a 22 point lead at halftime. Midwestern wasn't going to go down without a fight though, as they came out in the second half and cut the lead to as little as four, but it wasn't enough to overcome their first half woes.
 
The Tigers posted a great team effort, with three players posting double-digit offensive totals. Austin Mitchell led the way with 20 points, 18 of which came in the first half. Micah Delph and Colt Fason finished with 14 and 11 respectively. Michael Morris and Delph lead the team in rebounding, both finishing with six.
 
The Tigers were beaten on the boards in the game, as the Mustangs reined in 36 to the Tigers' 32. The Tigers also turned the ball over more, with 20 turnovers to MSU's 15. However, their superior shooting and great defensive performance prevailed.
 
The Tigers shot 53.5 percent from the floor in the game, while holding Midwestern to 44 percent. The Tigers never trailed or allowed a tie in the game, after jumping out to their early lead.
 
The Tigers return to the hardwood on Thursday, when they kick off conference action at home against East Central University. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Bill Vining Arena.
 
-Josh Fink, Sports Information Director