MAGNOLIA, Ark. - The Northwestern Oklahoma State men's basketball team earned their second straight road victory as they defeated Southern Arkansas 69-64 on Saturday afternoon in Magnolia.

The Rangers got off to a quick start, to jump ahead of the Muleriders early 12-7. The two sides tightened up defensively, as neither team allowed many opportunities to score. The Rangers maintained the lead however at 14-7 at the second media break. Northwestern found themselves trailing at the under eight minute media stoppage as Southern Arkansas used a 13-4 run to take the lead 20-18.

The next four minutes of action saw both teams traded baskets, as the game was tied at two different occasions during that time. Northwestern unfortunately found themselves down at the final media stoppage of the half 31-26 after five unanswered Mulerider points. The Rangers were able to get within one point late in the half but found themselves trialing by three at intermission.

The first half did not start in favor of the Rangers as the Muleriders went on an 8-2 run to start the period. Northwestern battled back to make it a four point game 45-41 at the first media stoppage. The Rangers found a hint of momentum following the timeout, going on a 6-2 run to get within one point with 13:19 left in the game. Northwestern tied things up at 52-52 midway through the second half following a steal and three point play by Max Alexander. 

The Rangers got their first lead since early in the first half  at 57-56 with five and a half minutes to play in the game with their defensive pressure causing multiple Mulerider turnovers. Southern Arkansas took a brief lead again but Northwestern regained the lead late in the game and never looked back.

Alexander lead all scores in the game with 33 points and Robbie Armbreaster recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds in the contest.

Northwestern will return to the hardwood on Thursday, January 22nd at 7:30 p.m. when they welcome Southwestern to Percefull Fieldhouse.

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