PITTSBURG, Kan. – The Hawks could never recover from the slow start in the final game of the Pittsburg State Thanksgiving Classic against the Missouri Southern State Lions. QU fell by the score of 74-68.

The Lions started the game on an 11-2 run as the Hawks started 1 of 8 from the field. Zion Richardson hit the lone basket in the first 5 minutes for the Hawks. A 9-0 run for the Hawks ensued to tie the game at 11. MSSU answered with a 14-2 run over the next four minutes and change to take a commanding lead. Solomon Gustafson hit a three with 4 seconds left in the opening half to get the contest within 10.

The Hawks were held to 36% from the field, while the Lions shot 56% in the first half.

MSSU saw the lead grow to as large as 16 points with 11 minutes and change to play in the contest. The Hawks went on an 8-1 run to cut the lead to 9 with nine minutes left. QU closed the gap to four on five consecutive points from Isaiah Foster with two minutes left. Unfortunately the comeback would fall short for the Hawks.

Game Leaders
Zion Richardson: 16 points
Jamaurie Coakley: 12 points