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Missouri State holds on for opening night win over Western Kentucky

Related Topics: Alize Johnson, Fives, Win

After a picture-perfect first eight minutes to the season, Missouri State was holding its breath towards the end of opening night.

The Bears let out a sigh of relief, escaping Western Kentucky with an 85-80 win over Western Kentucky.

MSU was at full strength to start the game when Missouri Valley Preseason Player of the Year Alize Johnson started for the Bears after nursing a knee injury for the majority of the preseason.

Missouri State jumped out to a 26-4 lead just eight minutes into the game.

Foul trouble let the Hilltoppers back in the game as Western Kentucky hit 17 of 21 free throws in the first half.