Men’s Basketball Falls to USF in Ariel
MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men's basketball team (12-4, 2-4) fell to the University of Saint Francis (Ind.) (10-6, 3-3) on Wednesday, January 10 at Ariel Arena.
In what was a fast paced and close first half of play, MVNU had its largest lead of the game at 33-30 with 5:16 remaining. The guests responded with a 10-2 burst to close the half and would lead 40-35 heading into the break. Momentum from the late USF surge carried over into the second half. USF opened with an 8-0 run to seize control. MVNU battled and closed the gap to single digits on multiple occasions, but ultimately it fell by a score of 87-77 in the end.
Inside the Box Score:
MVNU shot just 39.7% (27-68) from the field. MVNU made 14 threes at a 35% clip on the night.
USF shot a hot 54.8% (34-62) from the field and 31.8% (7-22) from three.
MVNU valued the basketball well, finishing the night with 20 assists to just 8 turnovers.
USF dominated the paint, outscoring MVNU 40-18.
USF outrebounded MVNU 41-34.
Kade Ruegsegger – 15 points (4-12 FG, 3-9 3PT, 4-4 FT), 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal.
Trent Koning – 15 points (5-14 FG, 4-9 3PT), 4 assists, 3 steals.
Milton Gage – 11 points (4-8 FG, 3-7 3PT), 6 assists, 3 rebounds.
Coach Ronai's Thoughts:
"Thought Saint Francis played really well. Give credit to them. We weren't our best tonight and that happens at times. We've got to get ourselves off the mat and keep battling. We have an opportunity to get better tomorrow."
What's Next:
MVNU will play No.9 Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana on Saturday, January 13. Tipoff is set for 3:00pm.
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 25 states and 11 foreign countries.
