SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Central Missouri Mules (5-2, 0-0 MIAA) defeated the McKendree Bearcats (3-1, 0-0 GLVC) by a final score of 75-67, Tuesday, Nov. 25, in the opening game of the 2025 DoubleTree by Hilton Thanksgiving Classic, inside the O'Reilly Family Event Center on the campus of Drury University in Springfield.   
 
The Bearcats led by four at the break, but Central Missouri evened the contest with a pair of free throws from reigning MIAA Freshman of the Year Kyran Tilley (16 points, four boards, and three assists overall) with just over 13 minutes remianing in the game.
 
McKendree's ensuing possession resulted in a missed three-pointer, before redshirt sophomore AJ Lux's triple off an assist from forward Jevon Hill (career and game-high eight boards, eight points, and two assists overall) gave the Mules the lead for good as they picked up their third consecutive win.
 
Lincoln, Neb. native Lazerek Houston led Central Missouri with 19 points, connecting on 3-of-5 attempts from beyond the arc, adding a game-high six assists, three rebounds, and two steals in the winning effort.
 
The Mules out-rebounded McKendree by a margin of 39-31 on the afternoon as freshman Trinell Parker grabbed a season-best eight rebounds, adding nine points, while guard Jake Fritz had nine points and four rebounds for good measure.
 
Forward Carter Kaifes contributed five points and three boards, plus Deadric Fikes (two rebounds), and Deshawne Crim ended the game with three points each.   
 
The Mules conclude the 2025 DoubleTree by Hilton Thanksgiving Classic, Wednesday, Nov. 26, as they take on the (Receiving Votes) Drury Panthers (4-0, 0-0 GLVC) at 7:45 p.m., inside the O'Reilly Event Center in Springfield, Mo.