Mustangs Secure Weekend Home Win Against Peru State

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Mount Mercy ended a seven-game slump against Peru State with a nail-biting 89-84 win on Saturday at Hennessey Rec Center. This victory brings the Mustangs to an even 11-11 overall and 6-8 in conference play, while Peru State falls to 12-10 overall and 8-7 in the conference.

The game tipped off with Brayson Laube hitting a jumper at 19:20 to give Mount Mercy an early edge. Aiden Price added a layup and a free throw, pushing the lead to 10-4. Peru State clawed back, with Jamal Hollins closing the gap to 10-8 with a layup. Jaxson Fried's clutch three-pointer at 3:10 stretched the Mustangs' lead to eight, their biggest of the half. A late layup from Laube ensured Mount Mercy went into the break ahead, 44-36.

In the second half, the Mustangs held firm. Laube's early three-pointer, assisted by Aidan Yamilkoski, set the tone. Price was instrumental down the stretch, nailing a key three at 7:56 and a jumper in the final minute to keep the Mustangs ahead. Peru State mounted a late rally, but Mount Mercy iced the game with Laube's free throws at the 20-second mark and Caden Schroeder's final free throw.

Laube led the Mustangs with 28 points, hitting 8 of 14 from the field and 9 of 10 from the line, while adding a steal and an assist. Price was right behind with 24 points, shooting 9 of 16, along with nine rebounds and six assists. Fried contributed 20 points, four rebounds, and two steals. Jordan Willis chipped in with eight rebounds, two blocks, and five points.

For Peru State, Denim Johnson was the standout performer, scoring 29 points on 14 of 19 shooting, alongside six steals and four assists. Ty Griggs added 15 points, shooting 7 of 12, including a three-pointer. Ashton Lovette contributed 13 points, highlighted by three triples, and four rebounds. Victor Lado rounded out the scoring with 11 points and six rebounds, making all six of his free throws.

Next up, Mount Mercy heads to Dubuque to take on Clarke on Wednesday, Feb. 4, with tip-off set for 7:30 p.m.