Mustangs Win Streak Snapped in Loss to William Penn

OSKALOOSA, Iowa — Mount Mercy fell to William Penn 98-84 on Wednesday at Penn Gymnasium. Mount Mercy secured 18 assists and recorded seven blocks in the contest.

The game began with William Penn's Foday Sheriff hitting a 3-pointer at 19:24, setting the tone for a competitive first half. Aiden Price responded with a layup at 19:03, contributing to his team's 43 points by the half. William Penn's lead expanded to 13-7 with a three from Alif Bass at 16:32, but Mount Mercy quickly answered with a three by Jaxson Fried. The teams exchanged leads throughout the half, with William Penn's Ryan Robinson hitting a crucial 3-pointer with four seconds remaining, giving the home team a 46-43 edge at halftime.

William Penn extended its lead in the second half with a strong offensive performance, ultimately securing a 98-84 victory over Mount Mercy. Malik Larane contributed significantly with multiple 3-pointers, including one at the 6:41 mark that increased the home team's lead. Price responded for Mount Mercy with a series of layups and a 3-pointer, but the visitors struggled to close the gap. Daivion Boleware's dunk with 3:25 remaining solidified the Statesmen's hold on the game, maintaining a double-digit advantage.

Price scored 27 points, converting 10 of 16 field goals and adding six assists. Jaxson Fried posted 19 points, collected six rebounds, and recorded two blocks. Cameron Williams added 10 points and contributed five assists. Dimitrije Nikolic recorded three steals and two blocks while tallying seven points.

Alif Bass led William Penn with 20 points, hitting 8 of 13 from the field and 4 of 6 from beyond the arc, while also dishing out six assists. Boleware matched Bass with 20 points, connecting on 9 of 15 shots, including two 3-pointers, and grabbed seven rebounds. Sheriff contributed 19 points, shooting 8 for 14, and added eight rebounds and two steals. Larane scored 11 points, sinking three 3-pointers and collecting five rebounds.

The Mustangs will look to jump back into the win column against Park, taking place in Cedar Rapids on Saturday, with game time set for 4 p.m.