WQIO Ohio's Super Station
MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men’s basketball team (10-7, 3-4 CL) defeated Taylor University (10-8, 4-4 CL) by a score of 71-69 on Wednesday evening, January 11 in Ariel Arena.
Things were back and forth in the first half as each team held the lead several times throughout the first twenty minutes. At the half, Taylor led 46-44. However, the hosts played a stronger second half and finished off the Trojans.
The game came down to the very last seconds as Taylor star Jason Hubbard found himself open for a three-point attempt with just five seconds to go. The shot bounced off the rim and was gathered by Jackson Lewis, whose last second shot did not go either.
Early on in the first half, MVNU senior Kyle Kegley scored his 1,000 career point at MVNU. He is the second player on the team to reach that mark this season after Kade Ruegsegger reached 1,000 career points last game.
Inside the Box Score
Trent Koning had a great game for the Cougars as he scored 17 points and had four steals.
On the night Kegley scored his 1,000 career point, the senior left his mark on the game, scoring 15 points and grabbing six rebounds.
Ruegsegger was honored before the game for his own 1,000 career points. The junior scored 13 on the night, adding three rebounds and two assists.
Milton Gage had a terrific night as he scored nine, had six assists, and hauled in five rebounds.
TC Molk was big off the bench as the freshman scored 10 points.
Coach Ronai’s Thoughts
“What a classic Crossroads League battle. Taylor is so physical and tough. Hubbard is a terrific player and it took a team effort to slow him down in the second half. A lot of growth in big moments from young guys. We’re looking forward to getting better tomorrow.”
What’s Next
MVNU will host No.16 Marian University on Saturday, January 14 at 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.
