Pioneers Win Shortened Game at Avila

The Pioneers blew out Avila 67-46 in a game shortened by 3 minutes due to an altercation on Thursday. Near the end of the game, two players were involved in an agressive rebound and a quick scuffle ensued. Several players were ejected for leaving the bench and the Eagles were left with just 4 players. The remaining 2:57 was forfeited and MNU took the 21-point victory. The game started slowly, and after 6 minutes of play, MNU led 7-0. The Eagles scored the next 7 points to tie the game, but MNU went on a 9-2 run which led to a 12-point halftime lead. MNU shot 52% in the first half compared to 23% for Avila. In the second half, MNU built a 20-point lead after 8 minutes and maintained the big advantage until the end of the game.

Jordan Whelan shot 6-9 from the field and 7-9 from the line for 19 points off the bench. Gabriel Jordan had 12 points and 9 rebounds. Nate Launius added 11 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals. And Justin Randall had 10 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 blocks.

MNU is 10-16 (9-8 HAAC). With one game remaining in the regular season, MNU is tied for 5th. The next game is Senior Day on Saturday vs. Graceland (6-20, 3-14) at 4:00.