Johnson's Game Winner Seals Win For Mustangs over William Woods

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Mount Mercy secured a 73-72 nonconference win over William Woods on Saturday afternoon at Hennessey Rec Center, closing the game on a late half-court execution to edge the Owls in Heart of America play.

The Mustangs finished with a 50% field-goal mark and outscored William Woods 36-20 in points in the paint, offsetting a 50% showing at the free-throw line. Mount Mercy improved to 6-7 overall with the one-point victory.

The game was tied 36-36 at halftime after Mount Mercy shot 54.2% in the opening period. Brayson Laube provided early perimeter balance, while Aidan Yamilkoski established position inside, allowing the Mustangs to stay level despite multiple lead changes.

William Woods controlled portions of the second half behind Brock Davis' interior scoring, but Mount Mercy answered with timely shot-making and ball movement. The Mustangs totaled 13 assists on 28 made field goals and limited empty possessions during critical stretches. Isaiah Payne delivered a key late sequence, knocking down a 3-pointer and converting two free throws to give Mount Mercy a brief one-point edge with just over two minutes remaining.

After trading possessions, Mount Mercy executed out of a late set with 25 seconds left. Kaden Johnson converted a short jumper to put the Mustangs ahead 73-72. On the final defensive stand, Mount Mercy contested the Owls' last attempt and secured the rebound to close the game.

Four Mustangs scored in double figures, led by Laube's 14 points. Jaxson Fried and Price each added 13, while Yamilkoski posted 11 points and nine rebounds. Mount Mercy finished with a narrow 36-37 rebounding margin but generated second-chance opportunities at key moments.

The Mustangs will play one final game before the Christmas break, taking on St. Ambrose in a rematch earlier this season, taking place in Davenport on Tuesday.