Missouri State University’s men’s basketball team was unable to overcome a large deficit in their Conference USA matchup against Sam Houston, losing 86-81 on Saturday in Huntsville, Texas. The Bears trailed by as many as 17 points with just under 16 minutes remaining but narrowed the gap to five points in the final minute before falling short.
The loss marks Missouri State’s seventh consecutive single-digit defeat in conference play. Michael Osei-Bonsu led the Bears with a career-high 24 points, shooting 10-of-15 from the field. Keith Palek III added 21 points and six rebounds, while Trey Williams Jr. recorded his first career double-double with 13 points and 11 assists. Kobi Williams contributed 14 points.
Trey Williams became the first Missouri State player since Josh Webster in February 2019 to reach double figures in assists during a game. He also collected three steals over his 37 minutes on the court.
Sam Houston secured its fifth straight Conference USA win, helped by Jacob Walker’s team-high 23 points and Po’Boigh King’s 17-point performance, which included three three-pointers.
After trailing by nine at halftime, Missouri State was outscored early in the second half as Sam Houston extended its lead to as much as 17. The Bears responded with key plays from Palek and Osei-Bonsu to reduce the margin, including a series of baskets that brought them within six points late in the game. Despite this effort, Sam Houston converted five of six free throws down the stretch to secure the victory.
Missouri State shot nearly 48 percent from the field and tallied just seven turnovers while scoring heavily inside with 48 paint points and collecting 16 second-chance points off offensive rebounds. Melakih Cunningham made his first career start for Missouri State, contributing five points and three rebounds in 22 minutes.
Sam Houston finished with a slightly higher shooting percentage at .500 overall and held a four-rebound advantage over Missouri State.
Missouri State will conclude its regular season at home with games against WKU on Thursday, March 5, and Middle Tennessee on Saturday, March 7. Tickets for these games are available through MissouriStateBears.com/tickets or at the MSU Athletics Box Office at Great Southern Bank Arena during regular office hours. Information about promotions and ticket specials can be found at MissouriStateBears.com/promotions.
