Games 19 & 20:
 
vs. Missouri Southern 8-11 (6-7 MIAA)
Thursday, February 1st, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Wichita, KS (Fugate Gymnasium)
Audio: Jets Audio Network | Video: MIAA Network | Stats
 
vs. Pittsburg State 10-8 (6-6 MIAA)
Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 | 3:30 PM | Wichita, KS (Fugate Gymnasium)
Audio: Jets Audio Network | Video: MIAA Network | Stats
 
 
Last Time Out
Stevie Strong was honored before the Central Oklahoma, as he had reached over 1,000 career points in a Newman uniform. He reached the milestone several weeks ago at Missouri Western, hitting the first three pointer of the game. He was awarded a graphic canvas presented by Head Coach RJ Allen. 

The Jets were down early and despite almost coming back several times, they never took a lead in the game. They came within just a few points multiple times but couldn't get a crucial shot to take them over the line.

As agonizingly close as the Jets came to retaking the lead, the team fell into foul trouble late as the Bronchos took a large lead from the free throw line. UCO would dominate the final three minutes to win 86-77. What hurt the Jets the most in the loss was letting UCO attempt 40 free throws. 
Box Score | Recap
 
MIAA Standings Report
The Jets remain in the same spot as they have been for the past several weeks, with Newman sitting above Northeastern State and Nebraska-Kearney in the table. This weekend's games are going to be very crucial for the Jets, as they take on two games just a bit above them.

Missouri Southern has a three game advantage over Newman, who currently hold the 10^th and final spot for the MIAA tournament, which is just about a month away.

The Gorillas are in 8^th place, with a .500 record in the MIAA. They are also three games above Newman. With two Jet victories this weekend, they would move in a position to overtake either team in the standings if some other results go the Jets way.

Behind Enemy Lines
For the entire month of January, the Lions traded a win for a loss in every subsequent game. They went 4-3 in January, which was their best month of the season thus far. Their inconsistency could be something the Jets take advantage of, with the last time the Lions winning more than one game in a row being in December, where they defeated Newman in the first half of the season.

The Gorillas of Pittsburg State have been on more of an up and up following a dismal start to their season. The Gorillas started a five game winning streak, beginning with their victory over Newman in early December.

Since they last met, the Gorillas beat (at the time) #3 Central Oklahoma and won six out of their next seven games. They then went on a three game skid before getting a win over Northeastern State last weekend.

This will be the third and final conference game of the week for Pittsburg State, as they will play Central Missouri and Central Oklahoma before heading to Wichita.

The Series
Newman is 1-7 all time against Missouri Southern. The Lions have won seven straight against Newman, with the only Jet victory coming in 2007. The Jets won 86-84 in overtime in that game.

Newman is 6-12 all time against the Gorillas. Pittsburg State has won the last three games, with Newman last beating them two years ago in February.

Upcoming Attractions
The Jets will head on their last long roadtrip of the season, taking on Fort Hays State and Nebraska-Kearney next weekend.