MVNU’s Comeback Attempt Falls Short Against (RV) Marian

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men's basketball team (14-13, 4-13) fell to (RV) Marian University (21-6, 11-6) by a score of 78-81 on Saturday, February 21 in Ariel Arena.

MVNU battled back in its home finale as it went on a 15-0 run to cut Marian's 20-point lead to just a 43-38 score near the end of the first half to get back into the game. The Cougars entered the break trailing 45-40. While Marian was able to recapture momentum and build its lead back up to double digits, MVNU kept hanging around. MVNU was able to feed off the home crowd and cut the Knight lead to single digits.

MVNU trailed 76-79 with just 15 seconds remaining in the game, but Marian took a foul to prevent MVNU from attempting a game-tying three. Grant Burkholder hit both free throws to cut the deficit to just one with six seconds left. MVNU had to foul to stop the clock and Marian hit both attempts to go back up by three. Unfortunately for MVNU, a turnover occurred as time expired, handing Marian the win.

Inside the Box Score:  

MVNU shot 50.9% from the floor and 42.9% (9-21) from three.

MU shot 47.5% from the field and 32% (8-25) from three in the game.

Marian controlled the boards by a 36-26 advantage. The Knights had 17 second chance points from their 11 offensive rebounds.

Kade Ruegsegger – 20 points (6-10 FG, 7-10 FT), 5 rebounds, 1 assist.  

Burkholder – 17 points (5-7 FG, 3-4 3P, 4-4 FT), 2 rebounds, 3 assists.

Trent Koning – 16 points (5-10 FG, 4-5 3P, 2-2 FT), 2 assists, 2 steals, 1 rebound.  

Coach Ronai's Thoughts:

"So proud of this group and their fight. They showed our value of unbreakable spirit in every way tonight. Marian just made one more play down the stretch. This group has struggled this month, but their effort continues to be tremendous. The lessons learned and character built through this time is important for our program and individual development. I'm looking forward to finishing strong with these young men."

What's Next: 

MVNU wraps up the regular season on Saturday, February 21 at No.1 Grace College at 3:00pm.

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.