MOUNT VERNON NAZARENE FALLS DOWN THE STRETCH TO NO. 17 MARIAN UNIVERSITY

by | Feb 16, 2022 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

COUGARS FALL DOWN THE STRETCH TO NO. 17 MARIAN UNIVERSITY

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men’s basketball team (19-9, 10-7) was defeated by No. 17 Marian University (22-4, 13-4) by a score of 72-64 on Tuesday, February 15 in Ariel Arena. The team’s two seniors—Tyler Kegley and Eddie Driskell—were honored prior to the game as part of the senior night festivities.

The Knights came into Tuesday’s game riding a seven-game winning streak and carried their momentum through the game to extend its streak to eight games. After a strong push by Marian in the first frame of play, the Cougars found themselves trailing by 10 points at the half. Despite trailing for much of the game, the hosts stormed their way back midway through the second half to take their first lead. However, the lead would not last long as Marian came back to retain their advantage. The final minutes saw MVNU trying to find a way back, but the visitors were nearly faultless from the free throw line late. Marian converted 21 of its 25 attempts from the charity stripe in the game.

Inside the Box Score

Kyle Kegley led the team with 17 points. The junior added nine rebounds and five assists.

Kade Ruegsegger scored 14 points and picked up two rebounds on the night.

Eric McLaughlin had a great night for MVNU as he scored 12 points, had nine rebounds, and dished out seven assists.

Carter Pline had nine points, two assists, and a steal.

Gichairo Berika scored six points on the night and added six rebounds and three blocks.

Coach Ronai’s Thoughts

“Super proud of our guys. They battled hard and came up just a little short. Marian is one of the oldest teams in the country with 22 years of experience in their starting lineup. We battled ourselves back and just couldn’t get over the hump down the stretch. So proud of Eddie and Tyler. They have meant so much to our program and I am excited for them to finish their race well.”

What’s Next

The Cougars close out the regular season on Saturday, February 19 as they travel to No. 3 Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00pm.