ABILENE, TX – The McMurry War Hawks men's basketball team secured a thrilling 84-82 victory over Mississippi University for Women in a high-scoring non-conference matchup at Kimbrell Arena. In a game marked by massive scoring runs and lead changes, the War Hawks held on in the final seconds to improve their record to 2-2 on the young season.

The War Hawks established an early rhythm and took control through strong interior play and rebounding, building their lead to as much as seven points in the first half. While MUW found success from beyond the arc, shooting 45.5% from three in the opening set, McMurry countered with effective penetration and second-chance points, dominating the fast break battle 8-2 early on. Despite a push by the Owls late in the half, the War Hawks maintained a slim 39-37 lead heading into the break.

The intensity only grew in the second half, with the two teams matching each other shot-for-shot, resulting in a 45-45 tie in the final set. McMurry surged ahead to a game-high 10-point lead midway through the period, fueled by an 11-0 scoring run led by outstanding play from the bench and the high-volume scoring of JaRayl Peoples. However, the Owls rallied aggressively, eventually cutting the lead to just one point in the final minutes.

In the frantic final minute, JaRayl Peoples converted a critical layup to push the lead to five, and with the score tightening again, Jalen Cherry stepped up to knock down the final two free throws of the game, sealing the dramatic 84-82 victory in front of the home crowd. The War Hawks' bench was pivotal all afternoon, contributing 47 total points, and the team's hustle led to 25 second-chance points, compared to just nine for the Owls.

Top War Hawk Performers

• JaRayl Peoples: Led the team with 26 points on highly efficient 10-of-14 shooting, including 4-of-7 from three-point range. He also added five assists and nine rebounds, serving as the team's engine throughout the contest.
• Jalen Cherry: Dominated the glass with 21 points and a team-high 17 rebounds, showcasing exceptional strength and effort. He also knocked down the decisive free throws late in the game.
• Koye Rondeno: Provided a massive spark, contributing 11 points and two assists off the bench. He was perfect from the free-throw line, going 4-for-4.
• Tyheim Williams: Shot a perfect 5-for-5 from the field off the bench to score 10 points, adding three rebounds and providing high energy in a crucial reserve role.

Up Next:

McMurry's next game will be next Tuesday, November 18, at Texas-Permian Basin in the Falcon Dome at 7:00 p.m.