CREVE COEUR, Mo. - The Hesston College men's basketball team put together a strong offensive effort on the road Wednesday night, but Missouri Baptist held on late to secure a 95–88 win in a fast-paced, high-scoring contest.

Missouri Baptist set the early tempo, finding rhythm offensively in the opening minutes, but Hesston settled in quickly and answered with steady scoring of its own. Trent Thompson knocked down an early three and continued to score inside, while Devin Lewis provided an immediate spark, helping the Larks stay within striking distance through a back-and-forth first half. Hesston's balanced attack kept pressure on the Spartans, but Missouri Baptist closed the half with timely baskets to take a 44–39 lead into the break.

The second half opened with both teams trading scores as Hesston looked to chip away at the deficit. Lewis continued to attack the basket and stretch the defense, while Thompson and Brennon Dodge delivered key buckets to keep the game tight. Antonio Odum added steady production as the Larks repeatedly answered Missouri Baptist runs, cutting the margin to one possession on multiple occasions. Each time Hesston threatened to swing momentum, the Spartans responded with perimeter shooting and trips to the free-throw line to maintain their edge.

Down the stretch, Hesston continued to push, scoring 49 points in the second half and shooting efficiently from the field. Lewis finished with 21 points, Thompson added 22, and Dodge chipped in 16, while Odum contributed 14 as four Larks reached double figures. Missouri Baptist relied on a balanced scoring effort of its own, led by Drew Kegerreis' 21 points, and used consistent free-throw shooting late to close out the seven-point victory.

Hesston shot 50 percent from the field and 44 percent from three while converting 21 free throws, but Missouri Baptist's efficiency and depth ultimately proved decisive as the Spartans secured the win.

The Larks will be back at home on Tuesday (Jan. 27) to host Doane University at 7 p.m.