Shooting woes hamper Grizzlies at Missouri/Iowa Challenge

Shooting woes kept the Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) Grizzly Basketball team out of the win column at the Missouri/Illinois Challenge Sunday in St. Louis.

The Grizzlies (5-9) connected on just 15 of 78 shots from the field and fell 58-50 to Parkland College from Champaign, Illinois, at St. Louis Community College, which played host to the event.

"We couldn't hit open shots, and it was a very physical game, so we had a hard time driving the basket," Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Jared Phay said.

The Grizzlies built a 29-25 halftime lead before going cold offensively in the second half.

"Overall, our defensive effort was good, and we didn't turn the ball over, but we just couldn't hit shots," Phay said. "We have to give credit to Parkland for their defensive effort, as well."

Key player missing

MSU-WP took the court without sophomore forward Nico Hill. Phay said Hill is in concussion protocol and will be unable to play until the weekend.

"Nico is okay now and is on track to play next weekend, but we will follow protocols and make sure he is good to go before we play him," Phay said.

Sophomore guard Byron "Tre" Breland provided the Grizzlies' lone bright spot, scoring 24 of the team's 50 points against Parkland. He also led the team in rebounds with eight.

"Tre played well and did what he usually does," Phay said.

Up next

The Grizzlies return to the court Tuesday evening to host Tennessee Prep from Memphis in a 7 p.m. contest at the West Plains Civic Center arena. 

"This loss stings, but we have to turn the page quickly and keep working to be better and more efficient offensively."

 For more information about the Grizzly Basketball program, visit www.msuwpgrizzlies.com or call 417-255-7991.