The Basics
Score: MidAmerica Nazarene 73 – Stephens 41
Record: MNU (2-0), Stephens (0-2)
Location: Parkville, Mo.
PARKVILLE, Mo. – #13 MNU improved to 2-0 on the season with a commanding 73-41 win over Stephens on Saturday afternoon, using a dominant defensive effort and a balanced offensive attack to pull away after halftime.
The Pioneers held Stephens to just two points in the opening quarter and 12 total in the first half, building a 30-12 lead by intermission. MNU's defense forced 22 turnovers and limited the Stars to just 5.9 percent shooting from beyond the arc while scoring 23 points off turnovers.
MNU found its rhythm offensively in the second half, shooting 57 percent in the third quarter and extending its lead beyond 30 points. Sophomore guard Kayanna Cranmer provided a spark off the bench, scoring 15 points on 4-of-5 shooting and going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line.
Mary Lukert added 13 points and hit three triples, while Grace Carlson scored 11 and went 8-for-10 from the line. Aubrey Rogers and Zaylee Werth each tallied 8 points, with Werth also dishing out a team-high 5Â assists and grabbing 5 rebounds. Kameron Green led MNU on the glass with 9 boards.
Turning Point
After leading 30-12 at halftime, MNU erupted for 25 third-quarter points, pushing the margin to 27 and putting the game out of reach.
Individual Leaders
Kayanna Cranmer: 15 points, 4-5 FG, 6-6 FT, 2 rebounds, 3 steals
Mary Lukert: 13 points, 3-8 3FG, 4 rebounds
Grace Carlson: 11 points, 8-10 FT, 3 assists
Zaylee Werth: 8 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds, 3 steals
Aubrey Rogers: 8 points, 3 assists, 5 rebounds
Kameron Green: 6 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists
Mackenzie Manthe: 7 points, 5 rebounds
Up Next
The next game is Friday in Seward, Neb. vs. Dakota Wesleyan at 2:00.
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