The Basics
Score: MNU 77, Benedictine 73
Record: MNU (5–3, 1–1), Benedictine (3–3, 1–1)
Location: Atchison, Kan. – Ralph Nolan Gymnasium
ATCHISON, Kan. – MNU earned its first conference win of the season Wednesday night, edging Benedictine 77–73 in a tight road contest.
The first half was tight until the Pioneers found some separation early in the second period. MNU led 48-44, and went on a 19-4 run to take a 19-point lead with 9:34 remaining. The Ravens chipped away, however, and used a run of their own to cut the deficit to 3 with 10 seconds left. MNU fouled in the final seconds, and Benedictine made their first and missed their second on purpose. The rebound fell back to the shooter and the putback was good, but a lane violation prevented the tie. Landon Wagler hit 2 free throws to ice it, and the Pioneers escaped with the win.
Malachi Bryant continued his strong start to the season with 20 points on 7-of-14 shooting, while Uriah Boutte delivered one of his sharpest outings yet, scoring 22 points and knocking down 4 triples. Landon Wagler added a crucial spark off the bench with 14 points in 20 minutes.
Turning Point
MNU's 19-4 run in the 2nd half proved to be enough.
Inside the Box Score
FG%: MNU 51.0%, Benedictine 49.1%
3-Point FG%: MNU 47.4% (9–19), Benedictine 39.1% (9–23)
Rebounds: MNU 27, Benedictine 26
Turnovers: MNU 14, Benedictine 14
Points Off Turnovers: MNU 24, Benedictine 18
Bench Points: MNU 20, Benedictine 21
Individual Leaders
Uriah Boutte: 22 points, 4 threes, 2 assists
Malachi Bryant: 20 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal
Landon Wagler: 14 points, 1 assist, 1 steal
Caden Kaberline: 6 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at home vs. Mt. Mercy (4-4, 0-1) at 2:00.
