Big Second Half Propels Wildcats Past Mustangs

CANTON, Mo. – The Mustangs achieved their highest-scoring output of the season Wednesday night, but it wasn't enough to overcome Culver-Stockton, falling 97-92 in a Heart of America Athletic Conference matchup at Charles Field House.

The Mustangs (1-10, 0-7 Heart) set the pace early with a scorching first half, converting 63.6% of their shots from the field and an impressive 64.7% from beyond the arc to take a 57-41 lead into the break. Aidan Yamilkoski led the charge, finishing the game with 25 points, including five three-pointers, while also collecting seven rebounds.

Mount Mercy's offensive efficiency continued in the second half, highlighted by 16 made three-pointers for a 50% success rate from deep. However, Culver-Stockton (2-9, 2-5 Heart) capitalized on second-chance opportunities and late-game composure, outscoring the Mustangs 56-35 in the second period. Connor Davis paced the Wildcats with 23 points, hitting key free throws in the final minute to secure the victory.

Sophomore Jaxson Fried contributed 18 points for Mount Mercy, and Kaden Johnson added 14 points on 5-for-6 shooting. The Mustangs recorded 20 assists as a team, displaying strong ball movement throughout the contest.

Despite holding a 21-point lead early in the second half, Mount Mercy could not overcome a 42-32 rebounding disadvantage and struggled at the free-throw line, shooting just 53.3% compared to the Wildcats' 88.2%. Points off turnovers and second-chance buckets played a pivotal role, with Culver-Stockton gaining a 24-12 edge in second-chance points.

The Mustangs will look to rebound as they return to the court at Benedictine, with tipoff on Saturday slated for 2 p.m.