The past five seasons, the Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats have lost a total of eight games.

The Bearcats also have won eight consecutive MIAA titles and three Division II championships.

UMSL knew what was in front of them, yet the Tritons kept it close, as they only trailed 40-36 after 20 minutes of play.

A strong second half by the 'Cats proved to the difference maker as they defeated UMSL, 78-65.

The Tritons enter Saturday 2-1 and the Bearcats improve to 4-1 overall.

To play such a formidable opponent this early in the season will only pay dividends down the road for UMSL.

Leading scorers for the Tritons: Jose Grubbs - 19; Yaakema Rose - 14; Marty Jackson - 13; Atavian Butler - 7.

UMSL looks to get back in the win column tomorrow night as they play Missouri Western, another tough MIAA program.