BILLINGS, Mont. – The Central Missouri Mules (2-1, 0-0 MIAA) defeated the New Mexico Highlands Cowboys (0-3, 0-0 RMAC) by a final score of 78-74 Sunday, Nov. 9, in the final game of the 2025 D2CCA Tip-Off Classic from Alterowitz Gymnasium in Billings, Mont.
 
The Mules trailed by six at the break before taking a 62-54 lead with five minutes to play in the second half, doing so on a 10-1 run capped off by a converted and-one foul shot from guard Lazerek Houston and never relinquished earning their second win of the season.
 
The Lincoln, Neb. native led UCM with a game-high 31 points, going 11-of-18 from the field, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc, adding three assists, and two boards for good measure. Four Mules ended the game scoring in double figures, including 14 points, five assists, and two rebounds from sophomore Kyran Tilley.
 
Forward Jevon Hill (team-high six boards, three assists, and two blocks) and Overland Park, Kan. native Jake Fritz (two rebounds and two assists) contributed 13 points each as the Mules shot 50 percent from the field, including 38.5 percent from beyond the arc.
 
Freshman Carter Kaifes had four boards and three points, while forwards Trinell Parker and Kyree Polk ended the afternoon with three rebounds and two points each in the winning effort.
 
The Mules continue the 2025-26 campaign Friday, Nov. 14, as they take on the (Receiving Votes) Minnesota State Mavericks (1-1, 0-0 NSIC) at 3:00 p.m., in the opening game of the Central Region Challenge, from John Lance Arena in Pittsburg, Kan.