Mustangs Hold On to Defeat Missouri Baptist; Winning Fourth Straight Game

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Mount Mercy built an early cushion and withstood a late push to secure an 81-78 win over Missouri Baptist on Saturday afternoon at Hennessey Recreation Center.

The Mustangs set the tone with efficient offensive execution in the first half, shooting 69.6% from the field and scoring 46 points before the break. Aiden Price anchored the attack, finishing with a game-high 27 points on 10-of-13 shooting. Mount Mercy also moved the ball effectively, recording five assists in the opening half while limiting empty possessions.

Mount Mercy led by as many as 19 points late in the first half and entered halftime up 46-31 after controlling the paint and converting at the free-throw line. The Mustangs shot 73.3% from the stripe in the first 20 minutes and held Missouri Baptist to 36.7% shooting.

Missouri Baptist responded after halftime with increased defensive pressure and a quicker tempo. The Spartans trimmed the deficit by attacking the rim and capitalizing on second-chance opportunities, cutting the margin to single digits multiple times in the final eight minutes. Javaris Moye led Missouri Baptist with 22 points, including key baskets in late-clock situations.

Despite committing 15 turnovers, Mount Mercy executed down the stretch. Aidan Yamilkoski added 19 points, hitting three 3-pointers. Dimitrije Nikolic and Jordan Willis provided interior presence, helping the Mustangs edge the rebounding battle, 38-36.

In the final minute, Mount Mercy converted critical free throws to maintain separation after Missouri Baptist closed within one possession. The Mustangs finished the game shooting 55.3% from the field and 40% from 3-point range.

The Mustangs will next hit the road for a midweek matchup in Oskaloosa, taking on William Penn on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., seeking a fifth consecutive victory.