A lights-out second half from the floor powered an 87-72 win for WKU Men’s Basketball over Missouri State Wednesday night.

The Hilltoppers’ offense came alive in the second half, shooting 55.6% from the floor and 42.9% from the three. WKU outscored Missouri State in the first half, 46-38, led by redshirt sophomore guard Teagan Moore, who scored 16 of his 20 points in the second half.

Four Hilltoppers scored in double figures. Senior forward Grant Newell poured in 14 points, all in the first half. Junior guard LJ Hackman and freshman guard Armelo Boone each contributed 11 points.

Missouri State took control, leading 20-17, before the Hilltoppers adjusted their defense. The Hilltoppers’ defense switched their initial alignment from man-to-man to a 2-2-1 defense, resulting in four turnovers and a 30% shooting percentage for the Bears as WKU closed the half on a 24-14 run. 

During the stretch, the Hilltoppers shot 50% from the floor, led by senior forward Grant Newell with 14 points and 3-3 from beyond the arc.

The Hilltoppers’ defense continues to be the difference maker, holding Missouri State to 25% from 3-point range. The defense forced the Bears into 12 turnovers, resulting in 19 points for the Hilltoppers.

The Hilltopper win improves their record to 11-6 (4-2 in CUSA). The Hilltoppers return to Diddle Arena against the Kennesaw State Owls on Saturday, Jan. 17.