CANYON, Texas – The #16 Buffaloes saw a late lead disappear on Saturday afternoon as a 7-0 scoring run to close the game by the Midwestern State Mustangs handed West Texas A&M a 70-68 Lone Star Conference defeat at D.L. Ligon Coliseum in Wichita Falls, Texas.
 
West Texas A&M opened the first half with effective scoring from beyond the arc, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Zach Brown at 18:53. The visiting team maintained momentum with a balanced attack, including a fastbreak layup by James Parlow Jr. at 9:55 to keep the score tight. Despite strong defensive efforts, including six steals and two blocks, the Buffs trailed by a narrow margin, 38–35, at the end of the half.
 
WT started the second half with a quick 3-pointer by Fontaine Williams, tying the score at 38-38. The team maintained intensity with a strong defensive block from Brendan Ballard, followed by a layup from Brock Mishak to keep the game close. Despite a tight exchange of baskets, Midwestern State briefly pulled ahead with a series of successful shots.
 
Midway through the half, the Buffs closed the gap once more, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Jailyn Sledge, which contributed to a tie at 55-55. The team then took the lead with clutch free throws from Mishak and Williams, extending their advantage to 61-59.
 
In the final minutes, the Buffs held a slim lead, bolstered by a critical 3-pointer from Sledge at 3:35, increasing their edge to 64-59. However, with seconds left, a turnover allowed Midwestern State to tie the game at 68-68. Despite efforts to regain control, the Buffs fell just short as Midwestern State converted free throws in the final second, concluding the game at 70-68.
 
Mishak scored 16 points, including one 3-pointer, and added five assists, contributing significantly to the team's efforts. Williams also scored 16 points, hitting two 3-pointers and converting all four free throw attempts. Brown tallied seven points and distributed five assists while collecting seven rebounds. Ballard recorded two blocks and two steals, impacting the defensive end with eight total rebounds.
 
The Buffs continue Lone Star Conference action on Thursday night as they face off with the #24 Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds at Steve Loy Family Foundation Arena in Portales with tipoff set for 8:30 p.m. CT.