LAS VEGAS - Top-seeded NM State used a big first half to defeat No. 5 Missouri-Kansas City, 78-64, in the first semifinal of the WAC Tournament on Friday night to advance to the Aggies' fifth-straight championship game.
The Aggies used a strong offense, shooting 14-of-28 with seven three pointers, and a stingent defense, holding UMKC to just 8-fo-23 shooting, to take a 16-point lead into the halftime break. NM State slowed down a little bit in the second half from the field but made up for it on free throws, going 17-for-24.
Ian Baker led NM State with 20 points, while Pascal Siakam posted his 26th double-double of the season with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Jalyn Pennie added 13 points and Braxton Huggins came off the bench to add 11.
UMKC's LaVell Boyd picked up a game-high 23 points, while Martez Harrison and Kyle Steward each scored 15 points on the night.