January 23, 2026 – The Emporia State men struggled offensively and were unable to contain the Lions on Thursday, as a slow start hindered the Hornets in an 83-59 loss.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
The Hornets scored on their first opportunity of the game to go ahead 2-0 but converted just one of their next 15 attempts while committing six turnovers over nearly 12 minutes, allowing Arkansas-Fort Smith to take a 32-9 lead.
 
Emporia State was unable to close the gap before halftime within 16 points, as the Lions took a 43-20 lead into the break.
 
In the first half, the Hornets had ten turnovers, while also shooting just 8-28 from the floor and 1-8 from three.
 
Following the break, Emporia State would briefly trim the deficit below 20 points, but the Lions continued to control the game, eventually building a 71-36 advantage with ten minutes remaining, their largest lead of the game.
 
The Hornets made six of their final 14 shot attempts down the stretch, but ultimately fell 83-59 against the Lions.
 
A LOOK AT THE STATS
Emporia State shot 33.3% from the floor, and just 4-20 from beyond the arc. Chris Harris was the lone Hornet in double figures with 11 points, marking his tenth consecutive game with double-digit points.
 
UP NEXT
Emporia State's road trip will continue Thursday, January 29 as they travel to Claremore, Okla. for a matchup with Rogers State. Tipoff between the Hornets and Hillcats is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.