RECENT GRIFFON HEADLINES

3/10/2010 - GRIFFON MEN TAKE ON CENTRAL MISSOURI IN SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - Western will face the 2nd ranked team in the South Central Regional Tournament, the University of Central Missouri Mules on Saturday, March 13 in Wichita Falls, Texas. Game time is set for 2:30 pm from D.L. Ligon Coliseum. The Griffons and the Mules have faced five times in the last two years with the Mules holding the 4-1 advantage. Western picked up the victory in the last contest this season by a score of 55-49 on February 24, 2010 in St. Joseph, Mo. Western and the Mules have face once in the NCAA Tournament with the Mules coming away with the 80-78 victory back on March 11, 1995. Both the Mules and the Griffons were bounced out of the MIAA Tournament by the Washburn Ichabods. The Mules fell to the Ichabods 79-60 while the Griffons fell 56-43. The Mules are coming into the contest losing two of their last three with one of those losses coming to Western. The Griffons have won four of their last five games to earn a trip to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since the 2002-2003 season where they lost 71-61 against the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats on March 14, 2003. The Griffons come into the game with a 18-11 overall record while the Mules are 25-3. This will mark the 51st meeting between the two schools with the both teams winning 25 games.

Live Stats
Live Audio
Regional Website
2010 NCAA DII Men's Basketball Championship Bracket

 Full Story  |   Download PDF

3/8/2010 - MEN'S BASKETBALL EARNS 7TH SEED IN SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL -

NCAA Division II Men's Bracket

Regional Website
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team won four of their last five games to finish 18-11 overall and 16-11 against teams in region earning their first regional berth since the 2002-03 when they finished 23-8 overall. The Griffons will face the 2nd seed Central Missouri Mules on Saturday, March 13 in Wichita Falls, Texas. The top seed in the tournament is Midwestern State University. Fort Hays State earned the 3rd seed while Nebraska-Omaha earned the 5th seed. Other teams in the regional are Incarnate Word with the 8th seed, Tarleton State the 4th seed and Central Oklahoma the 6th seed. All first round games will be held on Saturday, March 13 with times to be announced.

Click HERE to view the Watch Party

 Full Story

 View Photos

3/6/2010 - GRIFFONS FALL 56-43 TO WASHBURN IN MIAA TOURNAMENT - Box Score
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team fell to the 8th seed Washburn Ichabods 56-43 in the second round of the MIAA Men’s Basketball Tournament held in Kansas City, Mo. Western was led by Marcus Rhodes as he dumped in 17 points. Western falls to 18-11 with the defeat.

 Full Story  |   View Photos

3/5/2010 - GRIFFON MEN MOVE ON IN MIAA TOURNAMENT WITH 82-72 VICTORY OVER SBU - Box Score
Photo Gallery
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – For the second season in a row the Missouri Western men’s basketball team beat the Southwest Baptist Bearcats to move into the second round of the MIAA Tournament. Western the 4th seed defeated the 5th seed Bearcats 82-72 behind 22 points from senior Marcus Rhodes. Western shot a sizzling 61.0-percent (25-41) from the field improving their overall record to 18-10 overall.

 Full Story

3/4/2010 - MWSU Regains Momentum Heading into Tourney - By David Boyce
The MIAA
Link to Article

Missouri Western's men's basketball coach Tom Smith understands lightning rarely strikes twice, but memory of an electric moment can boost a team during a tough time.
 Full Story

3/3/2010 - WESTERN MEN JUMP TWO SPOTS TO 7TH IN THIS WEEKS REGIONAL POLL - Regional Rankings
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – With two big victories last week against 2nd ranked Central Missouri and Southwest Baptist the Missouri Western men’s basketball team jumps two spots to seventh in the latest South Central regional poll after going 2-0 last week in MIAA action. Western holds a 15-10 Division II record and a 15-9 record in regional play. The last regional that the Griffons made was in the 2002-2003 season when they finished with a 23-8 overall record.



 Full Story

3/3/2010 - RHODES AND BUSH GARNER MIAA HONORS - KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team was well represented on the 2010 MIAA All-Conference teams as two Griffon players made the All-MIAA teams as voted on by the league’s head coaches and announced by the MIAA office, Wednesday, March 3. Marcus Rhodes landed on the Second Team while James Bush found himself on the All-MIAA Honorable Mention and All-Defensive team.

 Full Story

3/3/2010 - GRIFFON MEN GET SET FOR BIGGEST GAME OF THE SEASON - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team will play arguably their biggest game of the season on Friday, March 5 at 2:15 pm in Kansas City, Mo. at Municipal Auditorium. Western will take on the 5th seeded Southwest Baptist Bearcats in the first round of the MIAA Tournament with the winner most likely getting a spot in the NCAA Division II Tournament. The two teams split their season series as the Bearcats defeated Western 82-59 in Bolivar, Mo. on Tuesday, January 19. Western earned the 4th seed in the tournament by defeating the Bearcats 86-72 in the final regular season contest last Saturday in the fieldhouse. Western has beat the Bearcats in all three meetings in the MIAA Tournament which includes last seasons 93-92 upset in the first round. Western finished the regular season 17-10 overall and 12-8 in MIAA play while the Bearcats finished the regular season 20-10 overall record and 11-9 in MIAA play.

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

 Full Story  |   Download PDF

2/27/2010 - GRIFFON MEN PICK UP 86-72 VICTORY OVER BEARCATS ON SENIOR NIGHT - Box Score
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball ended their regular season on the right note as they defeated the Southwest Baptist Bearcats 86-72 on Senior Night in St. Joseph, Mo. Western finished the season on a three game winning streak and finished with a 11-2 home record and a 9-1 record at home in MIAA play. Western finished with a 17-10 overall record and 12-8 in MIAA play. Marcus Jones tied his career high with five long range shots and had 15 points in the contest.

 Full Story  |   View Photos

2/26/2010 - GRIFFON MEN WRAP-UP REGULAR SEASON ON SENIOR NIGHT AGAINST SBU - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Griffons men's basketball team will host the Southwest Baptist Bearcats in a huge regular season finale. Western and the Bearcats are tied in the MIAA standings and will meet again on Friday, March 6 at 2:30 pm in the MIAA Tournament in Kansas City, Mo. Western fell to the Bearcats earlier this season by a score of 82-59 in Bolivar back on Tuesday, January 19. The Griffons are 16-10 overall and 11-8 in MIAA play while the Bearcats are 20-9 overall and 11-8 in MIAA action. The Griffons will recognize five senior student athletes who will be playing their last game at home. Those players include Quentin Noblin, Martin Nolan, James Bush, Marcus Jones and Marcus Rhodes.

Live Stats: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

2/25/2010 - GRIFFON MEN STAY IN 9TH IN THIS WEEKS REGIONAL POLL - INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team remains in ninth in the latest South Central regional poll after going 1-0 last week in MIAA play. Western holds a 13-10 Division II record and a 13-9 record in regional play. The last regional that the Griffons made was in the 2002-2003 season when they finished with a 23-8 overall record.

Full Regional Rankings

 Full Story

2/24/2010 - GRIFFON MEN UPSET 2ND RANKED MULES 55-49 - Box Score
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – For the second time this season the Griffons beat a team ranked in the top five as they defeated the 2nd ranked University of Central Missouri Mules 55-49 in the MWSU Fieldhouse. James Bush and Marcus Rhodes both scored 14 points as the Griffons defense held the Mules to their lowest output of the season. Western improved to 16-10 overall and 11-8 in MIAA play.

 Full Story  |   View Photos

2/24/2010 - GRIFFON MEN TAKE ON HIGH POWERED MULES - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team host the 2nd ranked Mules of Central Missouri in the fieldhouse tonight (Feb. 24) at 7:30 pm. Western fell to the Mules earlier this season by a score of 82-75 in Warrensburg on January 16. Dominique Thuston led the charge with 15 points. The Griffons sit at 15-10 overall and 10-8 in MIAA play while the Mules are 24-1 overall and 17-1 in MIAA play.

Live Stats: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

2/20/2010 - WESTERN MEN PICK UP BIG WIN ON THE ROAD AGAINST TRUMAN, 68-55 - KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – The Griffon men’s basketball team outscored the Truman State Bulldogs 40-16 in the paint as they came away with the 68-55 victory on the road. Marcus Rhodes led the charge tying a career high with 26 points connecting on 10-of-13 field goals. Rhodes scored 17 of his 26 points in the second half helping the Griffons improve to 15-10 overall and 10-8 in MIAA play, snapping their three game losing streak.


 Full Story  |   View Photos

2/18/2010 - MBB FALL ONE SPOT IN REGIONAL POLL; CLINCH SPOT IN MIAA TOURNAMENT -
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team fell one spot to ninth in the latest South Central regional poll after going 0-2 last week in MIAA play. Western holds a 12-10 Division II record and a 12-9 record in regional play. The Griffons also clinched a spot in the MIAA Tournament by virtue of Wednesday nights (Feb. 17) results. The Griffons hold the tie breaker over Washburn by virtue of their season series sweep. Seedings will be determined in the final week of the regular season.

 Full Story

2/16/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO GET BACK ON THE RIGHT TRACK - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men will try and get back on the right track this weekend when they travel to Kirksville, Mo. to play their last road contest of the regular season against the Truman State Bulldogs on Saturday, February 20. Western has lost their last three MIAA games and last six away from the fieldhouse. The Griffons beat the Bulldogs earlier this season by a score of 71-68 on January 13 in St. Joseph, Mo. The Griffons sit at 14-10 overall and 9-8 in MIAA play while the Bulldogs are 4-20 overall and 2-15 in the MIAA. Tip time is set for 7:30 pm from Pershing Arena.

Live Stats: http://gobulldogs.truman.edu/livestats.asp

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289


 Full Story  |   Download PDF

2/13/2010 - GRIFFON MEN STRUGGLE OFFENSIVELY IN 83-57 LOSS AGAINST BEARCATS - MARYVILLE, Mo. – Missouri Western men struggled offensively in an 83-57 loss against the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats in Bearcat Arena. Marcus Rhodes scored in double figures for the 19th time this season as he led the Griffons with 19 points connecting on 7-of-13 field goal attempts. The Griffons dropped their third game in a row for the first time this season as they sit at 14-10 overall and sit at 9-8 in MIAA play.

 Full Story

2/12/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO SNAP TWO GAME SKID - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team will try an avoid losing three consecutive games for the first time this year on Saturday, February 13 against the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats in Maryville, Mo. The Griffons are currently 14-9 overall and 9-7 in MIAA play while the Bearcats are 11-11 overall and 6-9 in MIAA play. Tip time is set for 3:30 pm from Bearcat Arena. The Griffons won the first meeting this season by a score of 84-80 back on January 6, 2010 in St. Joseph, Mo. Quentin Noblin dumped in a career high 22 points to lead Western to the victory.

Live Stats: http://www.nwmissouri.edu/sports/mensbball/stats/xlive.htm

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

2/10/2010 - GRIFFON MEN FALL AT HOME 90-74 TO UNO - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks scored 27 points off 15 Griffon turnovers as Western fell for the first time in MIAA play at home by a score of 90-74. The Griffons were led by Marcus Rhodes as he dumped in 19 points on 8-of-11 shooting. The Griffons sit at 14-9 overall and 9-7 in MIAA play.

 Full Story  |   View Photos

2/10/2010 - GRIFFON MEN HOLD DOWN EIGHTH SPOT IN LATEST SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL POLL - INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team continues to hold down the eight spot in the latest South Central regional poll after going 1-1 last week in MIAA play. Western holds a 12-8 Division II record and a 12-7 record in regional play. The last regional that the Griffons made was in the 2002-2003 season when they finished with a 23-8 overall record.
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

2/9/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK FOR TENTH STRAIGHT HOME VICTORY - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Griffon men will try for their tenth straight home victory on Wednesday, February 10 when they host the University of Nebraska-Omaha from the MWSU Fieldhouse. Game time is set for 7:30 pm. Western has won seven straight home MIAA games and will by trying to improve to 10-1 on their home court. Western fell to the Mavericks earlier this season by a score of 82-62 in Omaha on Saturday, January 3, 2010. The Griffons come into the contest with a 14-8 overall record and a 9-6 record in MIAA play while the Mavericks are 15-6 overall and 8-6 in the MIAA.

Live Stats: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

2/6/2010 - GRIFFON MEN CONTINUE TO STRUGGLE ON THE ROAD FALLING 79-75 AGAINST LIONS - JOPLIN, Mo. - The Griffon men got outscored 43-36 in the second half of their 79-75 loss against the Missouri Southern Lions in Joplin, Mo. The Griffons got out rebounded 44 to 30 on the night as they fall to 14-8 overall and to 9-6 in MIAA action. 

 Full Story

2/4/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO STOP FOUR GAME ROAD LOSING STREAK -

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team (14-7, 9-5 MIAA) will look to snap a four game road losing streak on Saturday, January 6 in Joplin, Mo. against the Missouri Southern Lions (12-8, 6-7 MIAA). Western beat the Lions earlier this season on December 30, 2009 in St. Joseph, Mo. by a score of 89-84 with Justin Taylor leading the charge off the bench with 18 points. Last season the Griffons lost to the Lions in Joplin by a score of 81-58 on December 31, 2008. James Bush led Western with 21 points and seven rebounds. The Griffons sit in 8th in the latest South Central Regional Poll which was released on February 3. The top eight in each region make the NCAA Division II National Tournament.

Live Stats: http://www.sidearmstats.com/sbuniv/mbball/index.htm

Live Audio (680 KFEQ): http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video (B2 Network): http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

 Full Story

 Download PDF

2/4/2010 - GRIFFON MEN REMAIN EIGHTH IN SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL POLL - INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team remains in eighth in this weeks South Central regional poll after going 1-1 last week in MIAA play. Western holds an 11-7 Division II record and an 11-6 record in regional play. The last regional that the Griffons made was in the 2002-2003 season when they finished with a 23-8 overall record.
 Full Story

2/1/2010 - WESTERN UPSETS #3 FORT HAYS STATE 75-69; FIVE PLAYERS IN DOUBLE FIGURES - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team upset #3 Fort Hays 75-69 Monday night.   Last season, the Griffons upset then #4 Southwest Baptist 93-92 in the opening round of the MIAA Tournament, but the victory is the first time the Griffons have beat a #3 ranked team since they upset Northwest Missouri State on February 4, 2002.  The victory made it nine in a row at home for the Griffons, and seven MIAA home victories in a row.  The Griffons used five free throws in the final minute of the game, something that hadn’t been their strong suit, to close out the game and secure the upset.  Five Griffons scored in double figures in the win, continuing their streak of having at least two players score in double figures in every win this season. 
 Full Story  |   View Photos

1/30/2010 - WESTERN WINS 8TH STRAIGHT HOME GAME IN 74-63 VICTORY - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team made it eight in a row at home, and six MIAA home victories in a row, with a 74-63 victory over the Ichabods of Washburn on Saturday night.  The Griffons led by as many as 19 in the second half, but come-back bids by the Ichabods left the final score at 11 points.  Justin Taylor led the Griffons on the night with 18 points.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

1/28/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO CONTINUE SUCCESS AT HOME -

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men will try and improve to 8-1 and 6-0 in MIAA play at home when they host the Washburn Ichabods (11-8, 5-7 MIAA) on Saturday, January 30 in the fieldhouse. Game time is set for 7:30 pm.

Live Stats: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Live Audio (680 KFEQ): http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

 Full Story

 Download PDF

1/27/2010 - ROAD STRUGGLES CONTINUE FOR GRIFFON MEN AGAINST HORNETS - EMPORIA, Kan. – The Griffons men were held to a season low 53 points in a 70-53 loss against the Emporia State Hornets on the road in Emporia, Kan. The Griffons road struggles continue as they fall to just 2-5 away from the fieldhouse. The Griffons fall to 12-7 overall and 7-5 in MIAA action.

 Full Story  |   View Photos

1/27/2010 - GRIFFON MEN ARE EIGHTH IN FIRST SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL POLL - INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team are eighth in the first South Central regional poll of the season as they hold a 10-6 Division II record and a 10-5 record in regional play. The last regional that the Griffons made was in the 2002-2003 season when they finished with a 23-8 overall record.

 Full Story

1/26/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK FOR SEASON SWEEP AGAINST EMPORIA STATE -

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team will look for a season sweep of the Emporia State Hornets on Wednesday, January 27 in Emporia, Kan. The Griffons last sweep of the Hornets came in 2002-2003 when they defeated the Hornets 80-61 on January 8, 2003 in St. Joseph, Mo. and 96-87 in Emporia, Kan. on February 5, 2003. Western defeated the Hornets earlier this season by a score of 89-62 on December 5, 2009 in St. Joseph, Mo. Justin Taylor, Martin Nolan and Quentin Noblin led the charge for Western as they all dumped in 13 points. Game time is set for 7:30 pm from White Auditorium in Emporia, Kan.

Live Stats: http://www.emporia.edu/athletics/livestats/basketball-m/xlive.htm

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video (B2 Network): http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

 Full Story

 Download PDF

1/23/2010 - WESTERN WINS 5TH HOME MIAA CONFERENCE GAME WITH 69-62 VICTORY - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team outlasted a tough Pittsburg State team to snap a two game losing streak with a 69-62 victory.  This marks the fifth straight MIAA victory at home for the Griffons and improves their record to 12-6 and 7-4 in the MIAA.  The loss drops the Gorillas to 7-11 and 1-10 in the conference.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

1/21/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO STAY PERFECT AT HOME IN MIAA PLAY -

The Missouri Western men's basketball team (11-6, 6-4 MIAA) will look to improve to 5-0 at home in MIAA play when they open up the second half of MIAA play hosting the Pittsburg State Gorillas (7-10, 1-9 MIAA) on Saturday, January 23. The Griffons have defeated the Gorillas three times in a row which includes earlier this season by a score of 80-77 on December 2 in Pittsburg, Kan. The Griffons were led by Marcus Rhodes as he dumped in 19 points. Game time is set for 7:30 pm from the fieldhouse.

Live Stats: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Live Video (B2 Network): http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

 Full Story

 Download PDF

1/19/2010 - POOR SHOOTING COSTS GRIFFON MEN AGAINST 16TH RANKED BEARCATS - BOLIVAR, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team shot just 30.6-percent (22-72) from the field as they fell to the 16th ranked Southwest Baptist Bearcats by a score of 82-59 in Bolivar, Mo. James Bush led the way collecting his second double-double of the season and third of his career dumping in 16 points and snaring 13 rebounds.
 Full Story

1/19/2010 - GRIFFON MEN TAKE ON 16TH RANKED BEARCATS -

The Missouri Western men's basketball team (11-5, 6-3 MIAA) will wrap-up the first half of MIAA action tonight against the 16th ranked Southwest Baptist Bearcats (15-4, 6-3 MIAA) in Bolivar, Mo. The Griffons are coming off an 82-75 defeat at the hands of 8th ranked Central Missouri on Saturday, January 16 while the Bearcats are coming off a 92-83 overtime victory over Northwest Missouri State. The Griffons beat Southwest Baptist in their last meeting by a score of 93-92 on March 5, 2009 in the MIAA Tournament in Kansas City, Mo. Tip time is set for 7:30 pm from John Q Hammons Court.

Live Stats: http://www.sidearmstats.com/sbuniv/mbball/index.htm

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

 Full Story

 Download PDF

1/16/2010 - GRIFFON MEN FALL 82-75 TO 8TH RANKED MULES - WARRENSBURG, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball squad took a two points lead into the half with the 8th ranked Central Missouri Mules but would be out scored 43-34 in the second frame falling 82-75 in Warrensburg. The Griffons were led by Dominique Thuston as he scored 15 points making 5-of-9 long range shots. The Griffons fall to 11-5 overall and 6-3 in MIAA play.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

1/15/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO UPSET 8TH RANKED MULES IN WARRENSBURG -

The Missouri Western men's basketball team will look to win their third game against the NABC top-25 this season when they head to Warrensburg, Mo. to face off with 8th ranked Central Missouri on Saturday, January 16. The Griffons are coming off of a 71-68 victory over the Truman State Bulldogs while the Mules are riding high off of a dominating 96-68 victory over the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats in Warrensburg on Wednesday night. The Griffons are 11-4 overall and 6-2 in MIAA action while the Mules are 14-1 overall and 7-1 in the MIAA. Tip time is set for 3:30 pm on Saturday afternoon in the Multipurpose Building on the campus of Central Missouri.

Live Stats: http://www.ucmo.edu/athletic/live/mensbb/xlive.htm

Live Video (Pay-per-view): http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

 Full Story

 Download PDF

1/13/2010 - CLUTCH FREE THROWS LIFT GRIFFONS TO 71-68 VICTORY OVER BULLDOGS - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team made 11-of-14 free throw attempts in the last two minutes in a pivotal home victory against the Truman State Bulldogs, 71-68. The Griffons forced 16 Bulldog turnovers and scored 34 points in the paint as they improve to 11-4 overall and 6-2 in the MIAA. Dominique Thuston dumped in a game high 20 points connecting on all eight of his free throw attempts.
 Full Story

1/12/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO STAY UNDEFEATED IN MIAA PLAY AT HOME - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team will be looking to improve to 4-0 in MIAA play at home on Wednesday, January 13 when they host the Truman State Bulldogs. Tip-time is set for 7:30 pm from the fieldhouse. The Griffons are 5-1 at home this season while the Bulldogs have struggled on the road going 0-7 overall and 0-4 in league play. The Griffons and the Bulldogs have split the last two meeting with the Griffons winning the last meeting by a score of 67-48 on February 21, 2009 in the fieldhouse. Marcus Rhodes led the way with 15 points and nine rebounds.

Live Stats: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

1/6/2010 - GRIFFON MEN HOLD ON FOR KEY 84-80 VICTORY OVER BEARCATS - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Western men built up a 19-point lead late into the second half before Northwest crawled its way back into the game. The Griffons hit free throws down the stretch to seal the 84-80 victory and improve their record to 10-4 overall and 5-2 in MIAA play.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

1/5/2010 - GRIFFON MEN LOOK TO CONTINUE SUCCESS AT HOME -

After an 82-62 defeat at the hands of the Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks the Griffon men's basketball team will look to bounce back against their rivals to the north the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats. The two teams will square off tomorrow night, Wednesday, January 6 in the MWSU Fieldhouse with tip time set for 7:30 pm. The Griffons have struggled against the Bearcats in the past few years but did pick up a 66-63 victory last year in Maryville on January 7, 2009. In their last meeting the Bearcats defeated the Griffons 79-66 on February 14, 2009 in the Fieldhouse. The Griffons are 9-4 overall and 4-2 in the MIAA while the Bearcats sit at 7-5 overall and 2-3 in MIAA play. Western is 4-1 at home this season and 2-0 in MIAA play.

Live Stats: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Live Audio (680 AM KFEQ): http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

 Full Story

 Download PDF

1/2/2010 - GRIFFON MEN FALL 82-62 TO MAVERICKS IN OMAHA - OMAHA, Neb. – Griffon men struggled in the second half falling to the Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks 82-62 in MIAA road action. Western falls to 9-4 overall and 4-2 in MIAA action. Western had three different players in double figures with Marcus Rhodes leading the charge with 14 points on 7-of-10 shooting.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

12/30/2009 - GRIFFON MEN EARN HARD FOUGHT 89-84 VICTORY OVER LIONS - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Faced with an early 14 point deficit mid-way through the first half, the Western men slowly worked their way back into the game with a well-balanced scoring attack. Six Griffons reached double figures on the night, led by Justin Taylor’s 18 points. Western improves to 9-3 overall and 4-1 in MIAA play.

 Full Story  |   View Photos

12/30/2009 - GRIFFON MEN SET TO TAKE ON LIONS AND MAVERICKS IN MIAA ACTION -

Picture Courtesy of Washburn Sports Information

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team will look to improve on their outstanding start to the season. Western sits at 8-3 overall and 3-1 in MIAA action after a thrilling 75-69 overtime victory on Monday, December 28 against the Washburn Ichabods in Topeka, Kan. Western will continue MIAA play on Wednesday, December 30 when they host the Missouri Southern Lions (7-3, 1-2 MIAA) at 7:30 pm from the MWSU Fieldhouse. The Griffons will round out the week on Saturday, January 2 in the first game of the 2010 year in Omaha, Neb. against the Mavericks of Nebraska-Omaha (9-1, 2-1 MIAA). Game time is set for 3:30 pm from Sapp Fieldhouse.

Webcasts: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Live Stats:
Missouri Southern: http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp
Nebraska-Omaha: http://livestats.internetconsult.com/unomaha/mbball/index.htm

Live Video: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

 Full Story

 Download PDF

12/28/2009 - GRIFFON MEN SURVIVE IN OVERTIME 75-69 ON THE ROAD AGAINST ICHABODS -

Photo courtesy of WU Sports Information.

TOPEKA, Kan. - The Missouri Western men’s basketball team improved to 8-3 overall and 3-1 in MIAA play getting a huge road overtime victory against the Washburn Ichabods by a score of 75-69. Western outscored the Ichabods 37-18 in the paint and out-rebounded the Ichabods 42-37 with Marcus Rhodes leading the charge with 15 points.

 Full Story

 View Photos

12/26/2009 - GRIFFON MEN TAKE ON WASHBURN IN TOPEKA -

The Griffon men's basketball team return to MIAA action on Monday, December 28 when they travel to Topeka, Kan. to take on the Washburn Ichabods. Game time is set fro 7:30 pm from Lee Arena. The Griffons set at 7-3 overall and 2-1 in MIAA play.

Listen: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

Watch: http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289

Live Stats: http://www.sidearmstats.com/washburn/mbball/index.htm

 Full Story

12/19/2009 - GRIFFON MEN FALL TO 7TH RANKED ROLLINS 91-73 - LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Despite shooting 50-percent (28-56) the Missouri Western Griffons fell 91-73 to the 7th ranked Rollins Tars. Western had a season low 19 rebounds in the contest as they fall to 7-3 on the season.
 Full Story

12/18/2009 - GRIFFON MEN UPSET 12TH RANKED PANTHERS 91-84 IN LAS VEGAS - LAS VEGAS, Nev. – The Missouri Western Griffons men’s basketball team picked up huge regional victory in the High Desert Classic against the 12th ranked Drury Panthers. Four different players scored in double figures for the Griffons with Justin Taylor leading the charge off the bench scoring a game and career high 22 points. Western is 7-2 on the season and has scored eighty or more points in all seven of their victories.
 Full Story

12/17/2009 - GRIFFON MEN TAKE ON PANTHERS AND TARS IN HIGH DESERT CLASSIC -

The Missouri Western men's basketball team will play their final two games before the holiday break in Las Vegas, Nev. The Griffons will be taking on the 12th ranked Drury Panthers on Friday, December 18 at 9:00 pm CST and the 7th ranked Rollins Tars on Saturday, December 19 at 8:30 pm CST. The tournament is hosted by the University of Central Missouri and the games will be played at Desert Oasis High School. Both games can be heard on 680 AM KFEQ with Brett Esely and Kent Heier bringing you all the action.

Live Audio: http://www.gogriffons.com/webcast.asp

 Download PDF

12/12/2009 - GRIFFON MEN FALL 67-54 AGAINST 22ND RANKED TIGERS - HAYS, Kan. – The Missouri Western Griffons scored just 14 points in the final 11:36 of the contest falling 67-54 against the 22nd ranked Fort Hays State Tigers. The Griffons six game winning streak was snapped as they fall to 6-2 overall and 2-1 in MIAA play. Western is now 1-1 this season against teams ranked in the NABC Top-25.

 Full Story

12/5/2009 - GRIFFON MEN DOMINATE HORNETS 89-62 - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team won their sixth game in a row and had seven different players score in double digits en route to an 89-62 MIAA victory over Emporia State.  Leading the way were Quentin Noblin, James Bush, Martin Nolan and Justin Taylor, each with 13 points .  Western also had a team season high 20 assists in the game, and out-rebounded the Hornets 39-25.  The Griffons improve to 6-1 and 2-0 in the MIAA on the season. 
 Full Story  |   View Photos

12/2/2009 - GRIFFON MEN HANG ON IN MIAA OPENER FOR 80-77 VICTORY OVER GORILLAS - PITTSBURG, Kan. – Missouri Western was able to fight off a late charge by the Pittsburg State Gorillas hanging on to a huge 80-77 victory in the MIAA opener. Western had four players in double digit scoring with Marcus Rhodes leading the way with 19 points on 6-of-8 shooting. Western has won five games in a row after losing their opener and sit at 5-1 overall and 1-0 in MIAA play.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

11/28/2009 - BIG SECOND HALF LIFTS GRIFFONS PAST INDIANS - KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Western Griffons outscored Haskell Indian Nations 47-24 in the second half on their way an 81-57 victory in the Rock U Harvesters Classic. The Griffons shot 47.7-percent (31-65) in the game with Marcus Rhodes leading the way with 20 points on 8-of-14 shooting. Western has won four in a row and improves to 4-1 on the season.
 Full Story

11/27/2009 - GRIFFON MEN IMPROVE TO 3-1 WITH 82-72 VICTORY OVER PARK - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. –   The Missouri Western men’s basketball team shot 53.8-percent (28-52) in an 82-72 victory over the Park Pirates. Marcus Rhodes and Dominique Thuston continue to play well for Western as they had 20 and 19 points respectively. The Griffons have won their third game in a row improving their record to 3-1 on the season and are 9-1 all-time against the Pirates.
 Full Story

11/24/2009 - WATCH HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GRIFFON MEN UPSETTING #17 CENTRAL OKLAHOMA -

The Missouri Western Griffons went 2-0 last weekend in the Hillyard Tip-Off Classic improving their all-time record to 32-4 in the Classic. The Griffons defeated Lincoln University 89-58 on Friday, November 20 and then battled back twice from double digit deficits to upset the 17th ranked Central Oklahoma Bronchos 83-79. To watch highlights of the UCO game click HERE.

11/21/2009 - GRIFFONS UPSET #17 CENTRAL OKLAHOMA; 83-79 - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. –   The Missouri Western men’s basketball team found themselves in a tough battle with the Bronchos of the University of Central Oklahoma.  In a ball game that was full of steals and buckets from beyond the arc, it would come down to free throws in the end.  Western used five free throws by Martin Nolan and Quentin Noblin with 30.4 seconds, at 12.2 seconds, and again at .0.7 seconds to seal a back and forth battle.  The Griffons upset #17 University of Central Oklahoma 83-79.  The Griffons are now 32-4 in the Hillyard Classic all-time, as they won both games this season.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

11/21/2009 - 165 PARTICIPANTS ENJOY A GREAT TIME AT THE HILLYARD CLASSIC YOUTH CLINIC - St. Joseph area youth in grades 2 - 6 were treated to a fun morning of basketball in the MWSU Fieldhouse today as Griffon Men's Basketball hosted the annual Hillyard Classic Youth Clinic.  Over 165 girls and boys took part in a variety of different fundamental skills stations including knockout, defensive slides, dribbling, rebounding and learning how to make a signature move in the Griffon offense, the jump stop.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

11/20/2009 - GRIFFONS WIN 89-58 OVER LINCOLN; COACH SMITH WINS 400TH GAME AT WESTERN - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. –   The Missouri Western men’s basketball team won their first game of the 2009-2010 season, and it was a special one for Coach Smith.  The 89-58 victory over Lincoln University is the 400th victory for Coach Tom Smith while at Missouri Western.  The Griffons used an explosive offense led by Dominique Thuston with 22 points.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

11/20/2009 - VIEW ALL THE HILLYARD CLASSIC BASKETBALL GAMES -

All four of the Hillyard Classic men's basketball game will be broadcasted over the internet for a cost of $7 on the B2 Network. All the games will also have live stats available.

Games can be viewed at the following locations:
http://www.b2livetv.com/partner_members.asp?id=289
http://www.gogriffons.com/xlive_MBB.asp

Game Schedule
Friday, November 20
Game 1: Rockhurst vs. Central Oklahoma - 5:30 pm
Game 2: Lincoln at Missouri Western - 7:30 pm

Saturday, November 21
Game 1: Rockhurst vs. Lincoln - 5:30 pm
Game 2: Central Oklahoma at Missouri Western - 7:30 pm

11/19/2009 - GRIFFON MEN SET TO HOST 18TH ANNUAL HILLYARD CLASSIC - The Griffon men's basketball team will be hosting the Hillyard Classic for the 18th season this weekend on Friday, November 20 and Saturday, November 21. Western has a 30-4 record in the classic and are 20-2 while playing in the MWSU Fieldhouse. During the first seven years in existence of the Hillyard Classic, MWSU Fieldhouse served as the site where the Griffons posted a 14-0 record. The Griffons moved the Hillyard Classic to the Civic Arena from 2000-2005 and posted a 10-2 record. The Classic moved back on campus in 2005 with the Griffons winning five out of seven contests moving their all-time record in the Hillyard to 30-4. Western finished second in the tournament last year after beating Arkansas Tech in the opener, and falling in the final seconds to Rockhurst. Western will take on Lincoln University on Friday, November 20 and Central Oklahoma on Saturday, November 21. Both games are set to tip at 7:30 pm.
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

11/17/2009 - WESTERN LOSES SEASON OPENER TO NON-CONFERENCE QUINCY; 73-65 -

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. –   Missouri Western once again struggled shooting in the first half and this time they would not be able to overcome the deficit.  The Griffons saw themselves down 34-25 at the half way point, and ended up losing the game 73-65.  The Griffons only shot 27.3% from the field in the first half, leading to the first home opener loss for Western in 16 years.

 Full Story

 View Photos

11/16/2009 - GRIFFON MEN'S BASKETBALL SET TO PLAY 2009-10 SEASON OPENER - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team will kick off their 2009-2010 basketball season with a home game against Quincy University.  The Griffons went 1-1 in the exhibition part of their season, losing to Division I Creighton and beating Livin' the Dream.  Quincy (16-12 last season in the Great Lakes Valley Conference), is 1-0 on the season after winning Sunday vs. Upper Iowa.  The Griffons are ready for the opener, and look to win their 16th season opener, as well as give Coach Tom Smith his 400th win while at Western.  The game is set for Tuesday, November 17 with a 7 p.m. tip-time.
 Download PDF

11/12/2009 - GRIFFON MEN’S BASKETBALL WINS 78-65 IN FINAL EXHIBITION GAME - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. –   The Missouri Western men’s basketball team welcomed Livin’ the Dream into the MWSU Fieldhouse Thursday night, but would have to overcome a slow start in their final exhibition game of the season.  Western found themselves trailing throughout the first half, including being down by as many as 10 points with a minute left in the half.  Solid basketball at both ends of the court helped Western fight back into the game in the second half and come away with a 78-65 victory.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

11/4/2009 - MISSOURI WESTERN FALLS 94-69 TO DIVISION I CREIGHTON - OMAHA, Neb. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team out rebounded Division I Creighton University by 16 but turned the ball over 22 times falling 94-69. The Griffons were led by Justin Taylor as he had 14 points off the bench while Marcus Rhodes dumped in 13.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

11/3/2009 - GRIFFON MEN'S BASKETBALL OPENS 2009-10 WITH CREIGHTON EXHIBITION - The Missouri Western Men’s Basketball team will open up the 2009-2010 season with an exhibition at Division I Creighton University in Omaha, Neb. on Wednesday, November 4. It is the first time the two teams have met and the first time the Griffons have played a Division I opponent since the 2007 season, when they met up with Missouri in Columbia. The Griffons were outshot and had trouble controlling the ball and wound up with a 110-52 loss. Western is coming off a 14-16 overall season in which they missed the NCAA tournament by a couple baskets in double overtime.  The Bluejays were 27-8 last season and participated in the NIT Tournament.  It was the 12th consecutive postseason appearance for Creighton.  Tip-off is set for 7:05 p.m. from the Qwest Center in Omaha.
 Full Story  |   Download PDF

10/27/2009 - GRIFFON MEN’S BASKETBALL PICKED 5TH IN COACHES POLL AND 8TH IN MEDIA POLL - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men’s basketball team was tabbed fifth in the MIAA preseason Coaches and eighth in the Media Poll which were announced today, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at the annual basketball media day at the Kansas City Marriot Hotel in downtown Kansas City.
 Full Story  |   View Photos

7/29/2009 - GRIFFON MEN’S BASKETBALL RELEASES 2009-10 SCHEDULE - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Missouri Western State University head men’s basketball coach Tom Smith revealed the Griffons’ 2009-10 men’s basketball schedule. The 27-game slate, 13 of which are home games, is highlighted with three classics before Christmas break and competition against three NCAA Division II Tournament participants.
 Full Story

7/16/2009 - GRIFFON MEN'S BASKETBALL WRAPS UP BOYS CAMP - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western Griffons men's basketball team finished up boys basketball on Thursday, July 17. The Griffons had approximatley 75 boys from grades 2nd-7th participate in the four day camp.
 Full Story

7/15/2009 - BOYS BASKETBALL CAMP ENTERS THIRD DAY - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball program is in the third day of hosting their boys summer basketball camp. The camp started on Monday, July 13 and will conclude on Thursday, July 16. The camp is offered for player form 2nd through 7th grade and goes from 9am-12pm every day.

 Full Story  |   View Photos

6/30/2009 - GRIFFON MEN'S BASKETBALL TO HOLD BOYS BASKETBALL CAMP -

The Missouri Western men's basketball program will hold a boys basketball camp from Monday, July 13 through Thursday, July 16. Registration will being at 8:00 am on Monday with walk-ins welcome. If you would like to sign up early visit this website: www.gogriffons.com/pdf/Camps/2009_Basketball_camp.pdf.

 Full Story

6/15/2009 - GRIFFON MEN’S BASKETBALL SIGNS ONE FOR 2009-10 SEASON - ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Missouri Western men’s basketball coach Tom Smith has announced the singing of one player to an NCAA National Letter of Intent. Denzell Cook (Omaha, Neb.) will join the Missouri Western Griffons roster for the 2009-10 season. 
 Full Story