Mustangs Fall at Home to Graceland

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Mount Mercy University faced a tough challenge on Wednesday at Hennessey Rec Center, falling to Graceland University with a final score of 97-75.

The game kicked off with Graceland seizing an early lead. Micah Lamberth's layup at 17:16 put Graceland ahead 7-2. The Mustangs quickly responded with a three-pointer from Cameron Williams, narrowing the gap to 7-5. However, Graceland remained in control, stretching their lead to 13 points halfway through the first half. Josh Sanderson kept the pressure on with consistent scoring, including a three-pointer at 10:19. Despite efforts from the Mustangs, such as a three-pointer by Aidan Yamilkoski that tied the game at 31 with 6:24 remaining, Graceland finished the half leading 49-42, bolstered by Carson Busch's reliable free-throw shooting.

In the second half, Graceland continued to dominate offensively. Carson Busch was instrumental, hitting multiple shots, including a three-pointer at 9:49, which extended Graceland's lead to 86-60. Cole Bowen's steady scoring and crucial defensive rebounds further entrenched Graceland's advantage, as they outscored the Mustangs 48-33 in the half. Despite Brayson Laube's efforts for Mount Mercy, including a fast-break layup at 14:43, Graceland maintained their momentum to clinch the win.

Laube led the Mustangs with 22 points, hitting 10 of 14 field goals and adding two rebounds. Aiden Price contributed 17 points, shooting 7 of 13, while also recording four rebounds and three assists. Williams chipped in eight points, including two 3-pointers, and secured two steals. Yamilkoski finished with 14 points, making three 3-pointers and collecting two steals.

Carson Busch spearheaded Graceland's offense with 35 points, connecting on 11 of 16 field goals and seven 3-pointers, while also adding four assists. Sanderson contributed 16 points, converting 5 of 6 from the field and 4 of 5 from three-point range. Deundra Roberson added 12 points and five assists, while Lamberth contributed 10 points, eight rebounds, and two steals.

The Mustangs will look to rebound in their next matchup against Benedictine on Saturday, Feb. 14. The game will take place at their home court, with tip-off scheduled for 2 p.m.