The Basics
Score: MNU 73, Mt. Mercy 71 (OT)
Record: MNU (5–3, 1–1), Mt. Mercy (4–4, 0–1)
Location: Olathe, Kan. – Cook Center
OLATHE, Kan. – MNU steadied itself after a shaky second half and survived a furious Mt. Mercy rally, outlasting the Mustangs 73–71 in overtime Saturday afternoon.
The Pioneers dominated the opening half, building a 36–23 lead behind sharp perimeter shooting (9 first-half threes) and balanced production. Mt. Mercy, however, flipped the game after halftime: the Mustangs hit 42.9% from deep in the second half and outscored MNU 34–21 to force overtime .
In the extra period, Uriah Boutte started with a 3-pointer, and Kaden Kaberline hit a pair of free throws for a 5-point lead. MMU battled back and took a 2-point lead with 2:11 remaining, and the teams remained close into the final seconds. With the game tied and 2 seconds left, Malachi Bryant was fouled and calmly hit both free throws. The Mustangs' final desperation heave landed in MNU's hands, and the Pioneers held on to win by 2.
Turning Point
Bryant's late free throws were the difference.
Inside the Box Score
FG%: MNU 35.3%, Mt. Mercy 42.9%
3-Point FG%: MNU 33.3%, Mt. Mercy 35.0%
Rebounds: MNU 42, Mt. Mercy 39
Turnovers: MNU 8, Mt. Mercy 9
Points in the Paint: MNU 33, Mt. Mercy 44
Bench Points: MNU 20, Mt. Mercy 3
Individual Leaders
Uriah Boutte: 22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists
Malachi Bryant: 16 points
Isaiah Cull: 8 rebounds
Up Next
The next game is Tuesday at home vs. Baker (2-5, 1-1) at 7:30.
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