Cougars Get Big Crossroads League Win on the Road at Marian

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men's basketball team (14-13, 6-11 CL) traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana where it defeated the Marian University Knights (11-16, 5-12 CL) by a score of 78-69 on Wednesday, February 19. 

The away matchup was a thrilling back-and-forth contest, with Marian initially taking the lead in the first five minutes of the game. However, Mount Vernon quickly responded, taking control midway through the half. The Cougars found their rhythm, hitting key shots and taking a 23-22 lead over the Knights with 7:28 remaining. Bailey Conrad was instrumental for the Cougars, knocking down crucial three-pointers to help extend their lead. Despite some missed shots from Mount Vernon, Marian capitalized on the rebounds and converted quick baskets. The first half concluded with Mount Vernon leading Marian 30-29. 

Marian quickly tied the game at 35 just two minutes into the second half. However, the Cougars, shooting a stellar 57.1% from three-point range, surged ahead to their largest lead of the night, going up by 14 with 10:48 remaining. Despite the Knights' efforts to close the gap, Mount Vernon's dominance on the boards and disciplined ball control in the second half proved decisive. Their strong execution sealed a 78-69 road win and secured them the tiebreaker over Marian for a spot in the Crossroads League Tournament.

Inside the Box Score 

MVNU shot 40.9% from the floor and hit 12 threes at a 37.5% clip.

The Cougars took great care of the basketball, dishing out 15 assists to just nine turnovers.

MVNU forced 13 turnovers, converting them into 15 points against the Knights.

Conrad - 24 points (8-19 FG, 5-12 3PT, 3-3 FT), 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal.

Peyton Heiss - 14 points (5-6 FG, 2-3 3PT, 2-2 FT), 8 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 assists.

Milton Gage - 12 points (4-18 FG, 2-7 3PT, 2-2 FT), 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals. 

Trent Koning - 10 points (2-7 FG, 2-5 3PT, 4-4 FT), 3 assists, 3 steals, 1 rebound.  

Coach Ronai's Thoughts

"Super proud of our guys. They dug in defensively and put together some big defensive plays in the second half. Thought our pressure bothered them in stretches which created some momentum for us on the offensive end. Looking forward to getting better tomorrow."

What's Next 

The Cougars will be back at Ariel Arena for their final home game of the season, hosting the Grace College Lancers on Senior Day on Saturday, February 22, at 3:00 p.m.

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 33 states and 26 foreign countries.