CANYON, Texas – The West Texas A&M Buffaloes started out the season in style on Friday night as they picked up an 87-75 victory over the Missouri Western Griffons during the opening day of the D2CCA Tipoff Classic at Civic Arena in St. Joseph, Missouri.
 
WT opened the game with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by a balanced attack featuring Fontaine Williams and Camden Cowgill. Williams contributed effectively with a combination of layups and a three-pointer, while Cowgill added a crucial three-pointer and converted free throws to extend their lead. Missouri Western struggled to keep pace, despite several lead changes early on.
 
The Buffs capitalized on turnovers, creating scoring opportunities and finishing the first half with a 45-30 advantage. Their defensive effort, including seven steals, kept Missouri Western's offense in check. The first half concluded with the Buffs holding a commanding 15-point lead.
 
WT established control in the second half with a series of key plays. Early on, Williams contributed both offensively and defensively, scoring a layup and later making a steal at 16:21. Jailyn Sledge added to the momentum with a block and a subsequent layup, extending their lead. Cowgill's three-pointer at 12:57, assisted by Brendan Ballard, widened the gap further. Despite Missouri Western's attempts to close the distance, the Buffs maintained their lead through consistent scoring, with James Parlow Jr. and Zach Brown each providing critical points in the paint. The second half concluded with the Buffs holding a substantial lead, 87-75, as they secured the victory.
 
Williams led the team with 17 points and added three steals. Brock Mishak contributed 11 points while making five steals and distributing three assists. Brown scored 14 points, converting six of his eight field goal attempts. Cowgill tallied 16 points, highlighted by three 3-pointers, and pulled down five rebounds.
 
Trey McKowen led Missouri Western with 14 points, making five of eight field goal attempts and two 3-pointers. Noah King matched McKowen's scoring output with 14 points, adding five rebounds and one block. Gavin Hershberger contributed 12 points and recorded two steals. Ty Henry added nine points and pulled down a team-high seven rebounds, while also providing three assists.
 
The Buffs conclude the D2CCA Tipoff Classic on Saturday night as they take on the Gorillas of Pittsburg State with tipoff set for 5:00 p.m. at Civic Arena.