FORT SMITH, Ark. - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Men's Basketball claimed its first MIAA win of the year Sunday after defeating Central Oklahoma, 79-71, at the Stubblefield Center.

The Lions trailed, 69-58, but closed the game on a 21-2 run over the final 5:10 to earn the victory.

Guard Terrell Williams Jr. started the run with a layup and three before a three-point play by guard VJ Reeves cut the deficit to two. Williams then hit another jumper in the paint with Reeves giving the Lions the lead on a triple on the following possession.

A three by guard Roland McCoy extended the lead to four as the Lions scored the final 10 points of the game. Williams scored nine of his team-high 18 points during the run.

The Lions led for the first eight minutes and took a 20-18 lead on a three by McCoy midway through the first half before enduring a seven-minute scoreless stretch before the break. UCO led 34-23 at the half and maintained that lead until the Lions dominated in the final minutes.

McCoy and forward D'Ante Bell each tallied 15 points with Bell pulling down a team-high eight rebounds. Reeves added 11 points and six boards off the bench. UAFS finished with 45 points from its reserves.

The Lions shot 58.6 percent in the second half, including 50.0 percent from three and finished at 45.8 percent overall.

Up next for the Lions is a road contest at Northeastern State Thursday at 7:30 p.m.