The Basics
Score: MNU 87 - Missouri Baptist 80
Record: MNU (1-2), MBU (0-4)
Location: Cook Center - Olathe, Kan.
OLATHE, Kan. – The Pioneers picked up their first win of the season in an 87-80 victory over Missouri Baptist on Saturday night. MNU found a rhythm in the second half, shooting an impressive 57.1% from the field to pull away from the Spartans and secure the home win.
Joe Buchanan led the Pioneers with 26 points, hitting four three-pointers and adding six rebounds. Gerard Bosch provided strong support with 22 points, seven rebounds, and a perfect 6-of-6 from the free-throw line. Gary Clay added 15 points off the bench.
The teams were evenly matched in the first half, entering the locker room tied at 42. The 2nd half was equally tight, but the Spartans were able to get separation with an 8-point lead with 7 minutes remaining. The Pioneers went on a 7-0 run to cut the MBU lead to 1, and Gary Clay turned a 3-point deficit into a 1-point lead with a 4-point play with just under 2 minutes left. After a stop, Clay extended the lead with a pair of free throws, and Gerard Bosch iced it with 2 more.
Turning Point
Gary Clay's 4-point play sparked a 12-2 run to close the game.
Inside the Box Score
MNU shot 50.8% from the field, with an advantage in fast-break points (16 to Missouri Baptist's 4) and a slight edge in rebounding (39-34).
Individual Leaders
Up Next
The next game is Wednesday at Central Methodist (3-1) at 7:30.
