Men’s Basketball Battles Hard but Falls to No.18 Pilots
MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men’s basketball team (14-10, 4-10) hosted No.18 Bethel University (18-6, 9-5) in Ariel Arena on Saturday, February 10.
MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men's basketball team (14-10, 4-10) hosted No.18 Bethel University (18-6, 9-5) in Ariel Arena on Saturday, February 10.
The first half was a close, back and forth affair as there were a total of 11 lead changes. Near the end of the first half, Bethel was able to create a little bit of separation as it took a 36-31 lead into the break. The Pilots opened the second half with a quick 4-0 spurt to add to the lead. Bethel slowly began to stretch its lead further and led by as many as 15. The high-powered Bethel offense shot 59% in the second half in MVNU's 80-67 loss.
Inside the Box Score:
For the game, Bethel shot 51% from the floor and 31.3% (5-16) from three.
MVNU shot 35.3% from the field and just 16.7% (5-30) from beyond the arc.
MVNU did a good job on the boards, outrebounding Bethel 41-35. The Cougars had 18 offensive rebounds.
Kade Ruegsegger – 13 points (5-16 FG, 3-3 FT), 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, 1 steal.
Carter Pline – 12 points (5-10 FG, 2-4 3PT), 8 rebounds, 1 block.
Bailey Conrad – 12 points (3-9 FG, 2-4 3PT, 4-4 FT), 7 rebounds, 3 assists.
Coach Ronai's Thoughts:
"Bethel is an outstanding team led by All-American Drew Lutz. I thought we defended really well in spurts but could not capitalize on the offensive end. We struggled to find rhythm on that end of the floor for much longer stretches. Much to learn and grow from tonight."
What's Next:
MVNU plays at the University of Saint Francis on Wednesday, February 14. Tipoff is set for 7:00pm.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,000 students from 25 states and 11 foreign countries.
