Henderson, Nev. — In a game played at a relentless pace and defined by offensive efficiency, Murray State Racers pulled away in the second half to defeat the Akron Zips 115–100 on Saturday at the Jack Jones Classic.
Layne Taylor led the charge with 23 points and eight assists as the Racers improved to 8–3 on the season. Taylor was especially effective after halftime, pouring in 18 points during the final 20 minutes to help Murray State create separation in a game that remained tight early.
The matchup between the Mid-American Conference and Missouri Valley Conference programs took place in Las Vegas as part of the Jack Jones Classic quadrupleheader hosted by UNLV Rebels.
Murray State seized control midway through the first half, grabbing the lead for good with just over 15 minutes remaining. The Racers carried a slim 47–42 advantage into the break, with Roman Domon leading the way with 10 first-half points.
Support came from multiple directions for Murray State. Javon Jackson scored 20 points on an efficient 9-of-13 shooting night while adding five assists, and JJ Traynor chipped in 16 points to keep the pressure on Akron’s defense.
Akron stayed within striking distance behind a big night from Tavari Johnson, who poured in a game-high 28 points. Sharron Young added 20 points, while Amani Lyles contributed 16 points and five assists for the Zips, who also fell to 8–3.
The Racers, however, proved too efficient after the break. Murray State outscored Akron by double digits in the second half, using ball movement, transition scoring, and Taylor’s shot-making to close out a high-scoring victory in the desert.
