MidAmerica Nazarene Pulls Away from Graceland in Hard-Fought Contest

LAMONI, Iowa (Jan. 13, 2025) – The Graceland University Yellowjackets fell to the MidAmerica Nazarene Pioneers, 78-53, in a Heart of America Athletic Conference matchup on Saturday evening at the Morden Center. Despite a strong start, Graceland struggled offensively in the second quarter, scoring just six points, which allowed the Pioneers to seize control of the game.

The Yellowjackets (4-14, 2-12 Heart) matched MidAmerica (16-2, 14-0 Heart) shot for shot in the first quarter, with the teams tied at 14 apiece after 10 minutes. Graceland's Kymani Freeman and Camila Barreno provided key contributions early, with Freeman connecting on a three-pointer to give the Yellowjackets an early spark.

However, the second quarter proved pivotal as the Pioneers tightened their defensive rotations, limiting Graceland to 22.2% shooting from the field. Meanwhile, MidAmerica's offensive patience began to shine, with Aubrey Rogers scoring 16 points, including four three-pointers, and Zaylee Werth contributing a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Graceland trailed 32-20 at halftime.

Graceland's offense found some rhythm in the second half, as sophomore Sophia Rodriguez hit back-to-back three-pointers to cut into the deficit. Senior Genesis Alarcon battled in the post, finishing with nine rebounds and seven points. Still, MidAmerica's sharp ball movement and three-point accuracy—shooting 33.3% from beyond the arc—kept the Yellowjackets at bay.

Head coach Willie Scott reflected on the game:
"We came out with a lot of energy in the first quarter. The game plan was to continue playing that way in the second quarter, but we just couldn't get it going and only scored six points. MidAmerica is a very good team and well-coached. In the second half, we played better, but they calmed down, moved the ball extremely well, and patiently found the open man for threes. I'm very proud of our group, and although we've been through a lot this season, we will play it out and focus on landing that last playoff spot."

Graceland's bench added 21 points, led by Nateonia Russell, who scored 12 points and collected two steals in just 18 minutes of play. Despite forcing 16 turnovers and finishing with 10 steals as a team, the Yellowjackets were unable to capitalize consistently, scoring just two second-chance points compared to the Pioneers' 10.

MidAmerica, the conference leaders, proved efficient at the free-throw line, converting 20-of-25 attempts for 80%. Conversely, Graceland struggled from the stripe, hitting only 5-of-15 free throws for 33.3%. The Pioneers also dominated the boards with a 49-29 rebounding advantage.

With this loss, the Yellowjackets remain in contention for the final playoff spot, with a pivotal matchup on the horizon.

Graceland will return to action Wednesday, Jan. 17, hosting Clarke University in another conference clash. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at the Morden Center in Lamoni, Iowa.

For more information on Graceland women's basketball and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.

Box Score Summary

MidAmerica Nazarene: 14 | 18 | 22 | 24 — 78
Graceland: 14 | 6 | 15 | 18 — 53

Key Players

• Graceland: Nateonia Russell (12 points, 2 steals); Genesis Alarcon (7 points, 9 rebounds); Kymani Freeman (7 points, 3 rebounds).
• MidAmerica Nazarene: Zaylee Werth (16 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists); Aubrey Rogers (16 points, 4 rebounds); Mary Lukert (17 points, 8 rebounds).