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GRACELAND UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Graceland Men’s Basketball Rolls Past Central Methodist
Graceland Men’s Basketball Rolls Past Central Methodist

Graceland Men’s Basketball Rolls Past Central Methodist

Box Score
Game Leaders
Central Methodist (MO)
Pts: Destin Jenkins - 15
Reb: Brandon Tchouya - 5
Ast: Brandon Tchouya - 2
Graceland
Pts: Maijhe Wiley - 19
Reb: Cole Bowen - 15
Ast: Carson Busch - 5
Team Stats
Full stats

LAMONI, Iowa— The Graceland University Yellowjackets men's basketball team secured a dominant 76-60 victory over the Central Methodist Eagles in Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) action on Saturday at the Morden Center. The win improves Graceland's record to 11-1 overall and 7-1 in conference play, while Central Methodist falls to 7-6 overall and 4-5 in the HAAC.

The Yellowjackets were led by a well-rounded offensive attack and suffocating defense, holding Central Methodist to just 45.1% shooting from the field and forcing 11 turnovers. Graceland's efficiency on offense shone brightly as they shot 54.7% from the field and connected on 43.5% of their three-point attempts.

Senior forward Cole Bowen delivered a double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds, anchoring the team in the paint and providing a consistent presence on both ends of the floor. Guard Maijhe Wiley had a career-best performance, scoring 19 points on 7-of-8 shooting, including a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc. Wiley's offensive efficiency was complemented by junior guard Carson Busch, who added 18 points and five assists.

"After our slow start, the team defense was exceptional the remainder of the game," said head coach Todd Lorenson. "Our tempo offensively was inconsistent but at times provided great shots for our team. Maijhe had his best night of the year. He's been efficient all season and tonight remained efficient over extended time. Carson continues to provide a steady presence for our team by creating for others and himself."

Graceland got off to a sluggish start, trailing 5-0 in the early minutes. However, a three-pointer by Carter Brown, followed by a layup from Darrius Davis, sparked a quick turnaround. The Yellowjackets established a 29-22 lead at halftime, thanks to a balanced offensive approach and strong defensive rebounding.

Bowen set the tone early with his rebounding effort, collecting nine boards in the first half alone. Busch contributed nine first-half points, including a key three-pointer late in the half to extend Graceland's lead.

The Yellowjackets came out firing in the second half, outscoring Central Methodist 47-38. Graceland's offense clicked into high gear, shooting an impressive 68% from the field after the break. Wiley was unstoppable in the second half, scoring 14 of his 19 points during the period.

Graceland also capitalized on its defensive stops, converting turnovers into points while maintaining their dominance on the glass. Bowen continued to control the boards, finishing the game with 15 rebounds, while Busch added timely scoring and playmaking to keep the Eagles at bay.

Central Methodist struggled to keep up despite a strong performance from guard Destin Jenkins, who scored 15 points and grabbed two rebounds. Kevin James chipped in 12 points off the bench for the Eagles, but their inconsistent shooting (30.8% from three-point range) hindered their ability to mount a comeback.

Team Statistics

  • Field Goals: Graceland shot 29-of-53 (54.7%) compared to Central Methodist's 23-of-51 (45.1%).
  • Three-Point Shooting: Graceland made 10-of-23 (43.5%), while the Eagles managed just 4-of-13 (30.8%).
  • Rebounds: The Yellowjackets controlled the glass, outrebounding Central Methodist 31-20.
  • Turnovers: Graceland committed only eight turnovers, while forcing 11 from Central Methodist.

Key Performers

  • Graceland:

    • Maijhe Wiley: 19 points (7-of-8 FG, 3-of-3 3PT), 2 rebounds.
    • Cole Bowen: 16 points (6-of-9 FG, 4-of-6 FT), 15 rebounds, 3 assists.
    • Carson Busch: 18 points (7-of-15 FG, 2-of-8 3PT), 5 assists.

  • Central Methodist:

    • Destin Jenkins: 15 points (5-of-12 FG, 3-of-5 3PT), 2 rebounds.
    • Kevin James: 12 points (4-of-5 FG, 4-of-6 FT), 1 rebound.

Coach Lorenson emphasized the importance of maintaining focus as the Yellowjackets prepare for the challenges ahead. "This was a solid team win, and I'm proud of the effort our guys showed on both ends of the court. There's still room for growth, especially with our offensive consistency, but tonight was a good step forward."

The men's basketball team will look to finish out the calendar year on a strong note in its final game before Christmas, on Monday, when it hosts Park University in a mid-day matinee at 2pm in the Morden Center. 

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