Mustangs End Regular Season Defeating William Woods

FULTON, Mo. — Mount Mercy University, now 7-13, closed out their regular season with a decisive victory over William Woods University, whose record fell to 2-23, with a final score of 61-50. The Mustangs took control in the fourth quarter, securing a strong 12-point cushion by capitalizing on their rebounding dominance, grabbing 46 boards compared to the Owls' 39.

The Mustangs kicked off the first quarter by overcoming an early deficit with stellar defense, blocking three shots and restricting the Owls to a mere three field goals. Despite facing initial scoring struggles, Mount Mercy found their groove late in the quarter. Taylor Wells and Aubrey Luvan each chipped in a basket, while Sadie Struchen knocked down a 3-pointer to even the score. Thanks to key rebounds and defensive prowess, the Mustangs closed the quarter tied at 8–8 with William Woods, setting the stage for a fierce battle ahead.

In the second quarter, Mount Mercy kept things tight with contributions from Sydni Morris, who scored at the rim with an assist from Sam Kiel. Although Candace Baker sank a critical 3-pointer, the Owls managed to maintain a slight edge. As the quarter progressed, the Mustangs matched the Owls' scoring efforts, with Wells adding a vital layup. However, William Woods took advantage of free throws late in the period, ending the half with Mount Mercy trailing 26-21.

The Mustangs surged in the third quarter, outscoring the Owls 23-13. Isabel Wallschlaeger's 3-pointer tied the game at 9:08. Morris and Baker capitalized on opportunities in the paint, with Baker also securing key defensive rebounds and a block. Mount Mercy extended their lead to nine points by 2:53, highlighted by a Morris layup assisted by Luvan, concluding the quarter ahead 44-39.

Mount Mercy maintained their momentum in the fourth quarter, with crucial defensive plays and efficient scoring. Kiel's steal and full-court finish at 8:00 sparked a run, stretching the lead to 48-42. Luvan's timely 3-pointer at 6:43 pushed the advantage to 51-42. The Mustangs sustained their momentum through free throws and defensive rebounds. Morris and Kiel added critical points, with Morris hitting a pair of free throws to keep the lead secure. The Mustangs sealed the game with a 62-50 victory over the Owls.

Baker achieved 14 rebounds and 9 points, along with two blocks. Kiel led the Mustangs with 13 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Struchen added nine points from three 3-pointers, while Morris contributed with 10 rebounds and 9 points.

For the Owls, Mariah Prince recorded a double-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. Layla Young was the top scorer with 12 points on 6-of-13 shooting, adding five rebounds. Megan Hughes contributed eight points and seven rebounds, while Noku Mundoringisa added six points, hitting two 3-pointers and collecting five rebounds. Abby Alvernia finished with five points, including a 3-pointer, and two offensive rebounds.