Box Score
MNU and #16 Benedictine combined to make 32 baskets and both teams shot 29% in a 52-44 contest which went in favor of the Ravens on Saturday. Neither team led by more than 4 points throughout the game, and MNU led 42-40 with 4 minutes remaining. The Ravens scored 5 straight points to lead by 4, and MNU managed just a single bucket in the final minutes. The back-breaker occured in the final minute with Benedictine leading by 3 and MNU needing a stop. As the shot clock wound down, the Ravens nailed a contested 3 to put the game away.
Nick Syrie was the only Pioneer over 50% (6-11) for 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists.
Nate Launius had 11 points, 3 blocks, and 2 steals. And
Luke Thomas had 8 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists.
The battle for 3rd place in the HAAC is a tight bunch. With 4 games remaining, Evangel and CMU are 9-5 while MNU is 8-6. The HAAC gets 3 automatic qualifiers at Nationals.
The Pioneers are 16-10 (8-6 HAAC). The next game is Thursday at Peru State (9-15, 4-10) at 7:30.
