Mustangs Clip the Eagles in Dominating Victory

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The Mount Mercy Mustangs secured a decisive 76-53 victory over Central Methodist University in a Heart of America Athletic Conference matchup at the Hennessey Recreation Center on Saturday afternoon. The win moves Mount Mercy to 9-5 overall and 7-4 in conference play, while Central Methodist falls to 6-9 and 3-8, respectively.

Mount Mercy's defensive intensity defined the game, particularly in the second quarter, where the Mustangs held the Eagles to just two points. Building on a 24-19 first-quarter lead, the Mustangs entered halftime up 39-21 and never looked back.

Claudia Vanzant led the Mustangs with a stellar double-double performance, scoring a game-high 24 points on 10-of-15 shooting while grabbing 11 rebounds. She was supported by Annika Headington, who added 17 points, including a buzzer-beating three-pointer to close out the third quarter. Madison Skelton contributed nine points and a team-high 10 rebounds, anchoring Mount Mercy's effort on the boards.

The Mustangs capitalized on their efficiency at the free-throw line, converting 83.3% of their attempts (10-of-12) and out-rebounding the Eagles 46-31. The team's defense forced 16 turnovers and limited Central Methodist to just 32.3% shooting from the field and 8.3% from beyond the arc.

Sa'Mya Stevens led the Eagles with 20 points and 16 rebounds, but Central Methodist struggled to find consistent scoring, recording only nine assists as a team.

Mount Mercy looks to extend its winning momentum in its next conference game, scheduled for January 8, as they travel to face off against Clarke. Tip-off is set for 5:30 pm.