CANYON, Texas – The #4 Buffaloes of West Texas A&M suffered their first loss of the season on Tuesday afternoon as they fell to the Central Missouri Mules, 88-78 during the opening day of the River City Holiday Classic at Bill Greehey Arena in San Antonio, Texas.
 
West Texas A&M began the first half with a strong defensive presence, capitalizing on turnovers and converting them into points. Kemper Jones hit an early 3-pointer, assisted by Fontaine Williams, to take a brief lead at 17:30. Despite Central Missouri's response, Williams continued to drive the visitors' offense with crucial layups, cutting into the home team's early advantage.
 
As the half progressed, the Buffs faced challenges from Central Missouri's scoring run, highlighted by Lazerek Houston's consistent contributions in the paint. Brock Mishak countered with a late 3-pointer, but Central Missouri maintained their lead. The half concluded with a fastbreak dunk by Brendan Ballard, narrowing the gap. The first half ended with Central Missouri leading 41–33.
 
WT began the second half with an aggressive approach, highlighted by Zach Brown's consecutive 3-pointers which helped to narrow the gap early. The Buffs capitalized on second-chance opportunities, tallying 11 points from offensive rebounds and maintaining pressure with strong bench contributions.
 
Despite these efforts, Central Missouri's consistent scoring, including key free throws and baskets in the paint, kept them ahead. The Buffs' Fontaine Williams secured valuable points from the free-throw line in the final moments, but Central Missouri's late-game execution extended their lead. The half concluded with Central Missouri winning 88-78.
 
Fontaine Williams led the Buffs with 24 points, converting 9 of 19 field goals. Brock Mishak contributed 14 points, hitting 5 of 13 shots from the field, including three from beyond the arc. Zach Brown was perfect from three-point range, scoring 11 points on 3-for-3 shooting from downtown. James Parlow Jr. added eight points and recorded two steals, providing defensive support.
 
The Buffs look to rebound tomorrow afternoon as they are set for a showdown with top-ranked Washburn starting at 1:00 p.m. in San Antonio. The Ichabods remained unbeaten with a win over #7 Lubbock Christian on Friday afternoon, 78-66.