MNU Comeback Falls Just Short vs. CMU

The Basics
Score: MNU 69 - Central Methodist 71
Record: MNU (2-4, 1-4), CMU (6-3, 4-2)
Location: Cook Center - Olathe, Kan.

OLATHE, Kan. – The Pioneers fell way behind in the 1st quarter, but made a valiant comeback in a 71-69 loss to Central Methodist on Wednesday. The game started with an administrative technical foul, and CMU hit 2 free throws before the opening tip. The Eagles dominated the quarter and led 25-11 at the break. The lead reached 17 late in the 2nd, but an 8-0 run - capped by an Arielle Sargent 3-pointer - got the deficit down to 9 at halftime. The Eagles pushed the lead back to 16 late in the 3rd quarter, but MNU again closed strongly with another 8-0 run to get within 8. Staying on theme, CMU extended the lead to 13 early in the 4th, and MNU used an 8-0 run to get within 5. The Eagles ended the run with a 3-pointer, but an MNU 7-0 run closed the gap to 1. With 1:08 remaining, Bi'Anna Pettis hit 2 free throws to give MNU a 1-point lead, but the Pioneers would not score again. CMU hit a fast break layup to take the lead, then split 2 free throws with 6 seconds left to give MNU one more chance. A desperation layup in traffic missed, and CMU survived.
 
Turning Point
CMU's layup in the final minute gave them the lead for good.

Inside the Box Score
MNU won 3 of the 4 quarters.

Individual Leaders
Kameron Green shot 7-9 for 15 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. Arielle Sargent had 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Bi'Anna Pettis added 11 points and 3 steals. And Jordynn Gonzalez had 10 points and 3 steals.
 
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at home vs. Mt. Mercy (5-3, 3-2) at 12:00.