Graceland Men Stay Unbeaten with Balanced Attack Against Waldorf
Lamoni, Iowa — Graceland University men's basketball remained unbeaten Tuesday night with a 76-60 victory over Waldorf University, led by senior guard Siddiq Canty's standout performance. Canty paced the Yellowjackets with 22 points on 10-of-18 shooting, showcasing his offensive versatility and setting the tone for Graceland's third consecutive win. His efforts, along with contributions from three other double-digit scorers, highlighted the depth and balance driving the Yellowjackets' early-season success.
Graceland (3-0) capitalized on strong performances from multiple players. Senior guard Siddiq Canty led all scorers with 22 points on 10-of-18 shooting, including two three-pointers. Freshman guard JY Smith contributed 14 points and pulled down six rebounds, while forward Carter Brown was reliable from beyond the arc, hitting three of his six attempts to finish with 12 points. Guard Carson Busch added a valuable eight points off the bench, underscoring Graceland's depth.
"We had great balance with four guys in double figures and another with eight points," noted Head Coach Todd Lorenson. "We have multiple players capable of leading us in scoring on any given night, which is a great asset. Defensively, we've been solid and need to keep growing in that area."
Graceland held Waldorf to a 42.6% field-goal shooting percentage and limited the Warriors' three-point success to just 29.4% for the game. The Yellowjackets also forced 18 turnovers, which they converted into 30 points, asserting their defensive pressure. By halftime, Graceland held a narrow 29-27 lead but surged in the second half with improved shooting and intensified defense, outscoring Waldorf 47-33 in the final 20 minutes.
Canty's contributions in the second half were crucial as he sank two key three-pointers, helping Graceland expand its lead and solidify control. Additionally, Graceland benefited from Smith's efficiency around the rim and Brown's perimeter shooting, which extended the Yellowjackets' advantage and maintained momentum during pivotal stretches.
The game was defined by efficient team play. Graceland shot 42.6% from the field and improved their free-throw percentage in the second half to 85.7%, sealing the game with precise execution. The Yellowjackets also excelled in rebounding, totaling 36 boards to Waldorf's 29, with forward Cole Bowen leading Graceland in that category by securing eight rebounds, including two on the offensive end.
Graceland's second-half offensive burst was complemented by strong contributions from the bench. Busch's eight points included two three-pointers that further widened the Yellowjackets' lead. Guard Darrius Davis contributed as well with a solid defensive showing and four rebounds, reflecting Graceland's all-around performance on both ends of the floor.
The Yellowjackets' next challenge awaits this Friday, when they will host Mount Marty College at the Morden Center in Lamoni. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m., marking an opportunity for Graceland to extend their early-season momentum on home court.
For more information on the Graceland men's basketball team and all of Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.