Mustangs Win Streak Ends at Three in Loss to Central Methodist

FAYETTE, Mo. — Mount Mercy (12-12, 7-9) faced a tough challenge against Central Methodist (16-8, 10-6), falling 77-65 on Saturday. The Mustangs pulled down 30 rebounds and forced nine turnovers, but couldn't erase a 13-point second-half deficit.

The game tipped off with Mount Mercy taking an early 2-0 lead thanks to a layup by Jaxson Fried. Central Methodist quickly answered, and the teams traded leads multiple times. Isaiah Reams of Central Methodist closed the first half strong with a layup and a three-pointer, helping his team to a 36-30 edge at halftime. Aiden Price was instrumental for Mount Mercy, dishing out assists and scoring crucial points in the paint, yet the Eagles stayed ahead with timely shooting and turnovers sparked by Isaiah Bonaparte.

Central Methodist held their advantage throughout the second half, outscoring the Mustangs 41-35 in the period. Raphael Gay was key for the Eagles, scoring multiple layups, including an important basket at the 19:29 mark to extend the lead. Jordan Willis scored effectively in the paint for the Mustangs, with assists from Price on two layups. Despite a late push from Brayson Laube, who hit a three-pointer with 46 seconds left, Mount Mercy couldn't close the gap. The Eagles' shooting accuracy and rebounding sealed their 77-65 victory.

Fried led Mount Mercy with 24 points, including three 3-pointers, and added six rebounds. Laube contributed 17 points and grabbed three defensive rebounds. Price achieved a double-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. Willis chipped in 10 points and eight rebounds, bolstering the team on both ends.

Reams led Central Methodist with 22 points, two 3-pointers, four assists, and two steals. Gay had a strong showing with 15 points and 10 rebounds, alongside two blocks. Tyson Oghene was pivotal with 17 points, draining three shots from beyond the arc and providing three assists. Bonaparte supported with 11 points, six assists, and two steals.

Looking ahead, the Mustangs will host Graceland on Wednesday, Feb. 11, with tip-off at 7:30 p.m. in Cedar Rapids.