The Basics
Score: MNU 74 - Indiana Wesleyan 78
Record: MNU (0-2), IWU (4-0)
Location: Cook Center - Olathe, Kan.
OLATHE, Kan. – The Pioneers narrowly fell to #3 Indiana Wesleyan in a 78-74 battle at home on Friday night. MNU held a one-point lead with just over a minute remaining but couldn't contain IWU's late push, which saw the Wildcats close the game on a 7-2 run. Shane Stevensen led MNU with a near double-double performance, notching 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Malachi Bryant added 9 points and 6 assists in a strong all-around effort.
After a tight first half, MNU carried a narrow three-point deficit into halftime. The Pioneers continued to trade leads with the Wildcats in a physical second half, but a clutch three-pointer by Griffin Kliewer and crucial free throws from Luke Brown in the final seconds tipped the scale in IWU's favor.
Turning Point
A three-point shot by Kliewer with under two minutes left gave IWU the lead, which they would hold onto until the final buzzer.
Inside the Box Score
MNU shot 90.9% from the free-throw line, compared to IWU's 70.6%. However, IWU's defense forced 19 MNU turnovers, resulting in 11 points off turnovers that kept the Wildcats in control during pivotal moments.
Individual Leaders
Shane Stevensen: 12 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists
Malachi Bryant: 9 points, 6 assists, 5 steals
Gerard Bosch: 12 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals
Joe Buchanan: 11 points, 2 rebounds
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at home vs. Missouri Baptist (0-3) at 8:00.
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