FORT SMITH, Ark. – Fort Hays State fell to No. 25 ranked Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday (Feb. 7). The Lions posted most points and highest shooting percentage by a Tiger opponent so far this season, winning 87-77 on their home floor. UAFS went to 18-4 overall and 9-4 in the MIAA, while FHSU moved to 15-8 overall and 7-7 in the MIAA.
 
The Lions were blazing hot in the first half, shooting 64 percent overall to take a 46-36 lead into halftime. UAFS hit nine 3-point field goals in the first half and went into the lead for good on one of the first half 3-pointers at the 15:57 mark. As hot as the Lions were shooting, they never led by more than 11 in the first half.
 
Arkansas-Fort Smith led the entire second half, reaching its largest lead of 18 with 13:11 remaining. The Tigers pulled within nine point of the Lions four times, but never could get any closer.
 
Muhamed Kante led FHSU with 18 points, followed by Kyle Grill with 15, Jahvari Martino with 12, and Eli Lawson with 11. FHSU shot 50.8 percent from the field overall and 83.3 percent at the free-throw line.
 
The Lions had six players reach double figures in scoring, led by Brandon Scott and Jarren McAllister each with 17. Three players hit three or more 3-point field goals for UAFS, led by Scott with five. UAFS finished at 57.7 percent from the field and a scorching hot 63.6 percent beyond the 3-point line (14-of-22).
 
Fort Hays State looks to bounce back from a tough road trip with a pair of home games next week. The Tigers host Emporia State on Thursday night (Feb. 12) before welcoming Newman on Saturday (Feb. 14).