Bees edge Mustangs in season debut

DAVENPORT, Iowa -- Ryan Bartley poured in a game-high 27 points, but St. Ambrose held off Mount Mercy, 80-73, in the season debut for both teams Wednesday night at Lee Lohman Arena.

The Bees shot 50.8 percent from the field and outscored the Mustangs, 17-6, at the free throw line. Both teams struggled from 3-point range, with St. Ambrose going 3-of-14 and Mount Mercy shooting 7-of-23 beyond the arc. Rebounds were 42-31 in favor of the Bees as well.

Bartley was 10-of-17 from the floor, 5-of-6 from deep, and grabbed four rebounds. Anthony Horton, Jr. added 13 points and five boards, Kenny Clay tallied six points, five rebounds, and a game-best seven assists. Camron Pierson chipped in seven points and six boards off the bench for the Mustangs.

Will Spriggs led the Bees with 22 points, Andrew Morrissey put in 19 to go along with eight rebounds. Grant Mason finished with nine points, Jayven Jones and Amarey Wills eight apiece.

Mount Mercy's home opener is Nov. 4 against Waldorf. Tip-off is at 7:30 pm at Hennessey Recreation Center.