The Basics
Score: Baker 70, MNU 67
Record: MNU (18-12), Baker (27-3)
Location: Collins Center – Baldwin City, Kan.
BALDWIN CITY, Kan. – MNU battled until the final buzzer but came up just short in a heartbreaking 70-67 loss to top-seeded Baker in the Heart Tournament Semifinals on Saturday night. The Pioneers led for much of the second half, but a late push from Baker swung the game in the final minutes.
Neither team could get anything going in the opening minutes, and the first points were scored after 3 minutes of play. The Pioneers trailed 4-0 at the first media timeout, and the game finally found some rhythm after the break. MNU took a 33-32 lead into halftime behind a strong first-half performance from Shane Stevenson, who scored 18 points off the bench in the period. The Pioneers extended their lead to as many as 9 in the second half - thanks to a flurry of contested threes from Joe Buchanan - but Baker slowly chipped away. After the under-15 media timeout, Baker went on a 24-8 run over the next 10 minutes to take a 7-point lead. MNU trailed by 9 in the final minute, but fought back to get within 2 in the final seconds. Baker hit enough free throws to stay ahead, and the Pioneer season came to an end.
Turning Point
Baker's 24-8 run in the 2nd half turned the game around.
Inside the Box Score
- MNU hit 10 three-pointers, shooting 34.5% from deep
- MNU held Baker to just 25% (5-20) from beyond the arc but was outscored at the free-throw line 21-13
Individual Leaders
Up Next
The next game is the 2025-26 season opener.
