Pittsburg, Kan. - Newman traveled to Pittsburg to open up conference play with a spirited matchup with the Gorillas of Pittsburg State.  The Jets led by as many as 8 in the second half yet ultimately fell to the Gorillas 71-66.

Wednesday was the Jets' first conference matchup on the young season.  With the loss, Newman falls to 3-3 (0-1 MIAA) while Pittsburg State advances to 2-5 (1-0 MIAA) with the win.

The first half was back and forth throughout.  No team jumped out to a lead larger than 4.  Pitt State was able to squeak out a one point lead with 5 first half three pointers.  The Jets kept the Gorillas within reach with 8 of 9 made from the charity stripe.

In the second half it was more of the same.  The Jets were able to create more space offensively and at 10:20 an Israel Barnes three pointer gave the Jets their largest lead of 8 points.  The Jets had a few tough shots that would not fall in crunch time Wednesday night and the Gorillas bullied their way back into the game.  On a poor free throw shooting night for the home team, it was 4 Pitt State free throws that put away the Jets 71-66.

Israel Barnes finished with 21 points and 5 rebounds shooting 50% from the field.  David Javorsky was just one rebound shy of posting a double-double with 10 points and 9 rebounds.

Up next is a trip to Joplin, Missouri on Saturday.  Tip-off is slated for 3:30 PM as Newman and Missouri Southern square off.