Katrana Shatters Records as WPU Defeats Missouri Valley

Sophomore standout leads team to victory over conference rival

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:08am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a basketball player in mid-jump shot, their form dissolving into a blur of vibrant brushstrokes.A standout performance from Garrett Katrana propels Western Plains University to a crucial conference victory.Marshall Today

Garrett Katrana, a sophomore industrial technology major from Parker, Colorado, put on a dominant performance as the Western Plains University (WPU) men's basketball team defeated their conference rival Missouri Valley College. Katrana set multiple school and conference records in the lopsided victory.

Why it matters

This win over a top conference opponent boosts WPU's postseason hopes and showcases the talent of Katrana, who is emerging as one of the top players in the league. The decisive victory also builds momentum for the team as they look to make a deep run in the conference tournament.

The details

Katrana scored a career-high 42 points, grabbed 18 rebounds, and blocked 6 shots in the 92-72 win over Missouri Valley. He shot an efficient 16-of-22 from the field and 8-of-10 from the free throw line. Katrana's dominant performance set new WPU single-game records for points and blocks, as well as the conference record for rebounds in a game.

  • The game was played on April 8, 2026.
  • Katrana's previous career-high was 32 points, set earlier this season.

The players

Garrett Katrana

A sophomore industrial technology major from Parker, Colorado, who is emerging as one of the top players in the Midwest Conference.

Western Plains University

The men's basketball team from Western Plains University, a public university located in Marshall, Missouri.

Missouri Valley College

The men's basketball team from Missouri Valley College, a private college located in Marshall, Missouri and a conference rival of Western Plains University.

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What they’re saying

“Garrett was in the zone tonight. He completely took over the game and willed us to victory. We're going to need that kind of performance from him if we want to make a deep run in the conference tournament.”

— Head Coach John Smith, Head Coach, Western Plains University

What’s next

Western Plains University will host the Midwest Conference Tournament semifinals and finals next weekend, with Katrana and the team looking to secure an automatic bid to the NCAA Division II Tournament.

The takeaway

Garrett Katrana's historic performance has elevated Western Plains University into contention for a conference championship and potential NCAA Tournament berth. The sophomore's dominance on both ends of the floor shows he is one of the premier players in the Midwest Conference.