ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — George Mason University’s men’s basketball team maintained its unbeaten record with a 76-68 victory over Missouri-Kansas City on Thursday. The Patriots are now 3-0 for the season.
Shane Pendergrass was instrumental in the win, contributing 16 points off the bench. He made 7 of 11 attempts from the field and hit 1 of 3 from three-point range. Brayden O’Connor added 15 points, going 3 for 9 overall, making 1 of 3 from behind the arc, and converting 8 of 10 free throws, along with recording six assists. Baraka Okojie chipped in with 13 points.
For Kansas City, Jaylen Smith led the team with 22 points, while Assane Diop supported with 15 points and six rebounds. Lincoln Goodwin added nine points for the Roos, who now hold a record of 2-3 this season.
George Mason seized control of the game late in the first half, establishing a lead with just 50 seconds remaining before halftime, which concluded at 37-33. In the second half, the Patriots extended their lead significantly, launching a 15-2 run that allowed them to pull ahead 58-43 with 10:18 left in the game. Pendergrass scored 11 of his points during this pivotal second half.
George Mason will look to continue its winning streak in its next game against Bradley on Saturday. Meanwhile, Kansas City is set to host Newman on Tuesday.
