Mustangs torch Statesmen in second half, earn season sweep

OSKALOOSA, Iowa -- After trailing by three at the break, the Mount Mercy men's basketball team erupted for 52 second-half points to defeat William Penn, 88-77, on Wednesday night at Penn Gymnasium and earn their first season sweep of the Statesmen since the 2014-15 season.

The Mustangs didn't get off to a hot start offensively but turned things around after intermission. They shot 58.1 percent from the floor overall in the second half, including 57.1 percent (8-of-14) from 3-point range. Mount Mercy earned their second road victory as well and improved to 6-11 overall and 5-8 in the Heart of America Athletic Conference. William Penn dipped to 4-13 and 3-10 in the league.

Ryan Bartley dropped in a game-high 29 points and grabbed six rebounds to lead the Mustangs. Rusmir Hamzic added 14 points while Anthony Horton, Jr. recorded another double-double with 13 points and 10 assists. Camron Pierson and Jaxson Fried each had nine points, Jakari Bradley seven.

Jaz Farrell came off the bench to lead the Statesmen with 21 points to go along with six rebounds. Manny Hammonds chipped in 14 points, Justin Bradley 13. Marcus Bell tallied seven boards and eight assists.

Mount Mercy takes on Peru State (10-7, 6-7 Heart) on Saturday at 6:00 pm at Hennessey Recreation Center.