Graceland Men's Basketball Overcomes Clarke in Commanding Road Win

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The Graceland men's basketball team continued its unbeaten start to the season with a decisive 79-62 victory over Clarke University on the road Wednesday night. This win lifts the Yellowjackets to a perfect 5-0, including a 1-0 record in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC). The Yellowjackets relied on key in-game adjustments and steady performances across the board, particularly from standout players Siddiq Canty and Darrius Davis.

Head Coach Todd Lorenson praised the team's resilience and adaptability in his post-game comments: "We had a poor stretch in the final few minutes of the first half but closed with our best stretch in the last five minutes to secure the road win. Our guys executed some key in-game adjustments—the importance of that can't be overstated. This team has that ability. Siddiq made multiple plays for himself and others to lead us offensively."

Graceland opened the game with early with effective ball movement and efficient shooting, building an early lead. Winning on the road in conference is never easy, and Clarke made sure that held true early with a mix of perimeter shooting and and solid defense. The Yellowjackets shot 40% from the field in the first half, converting 14 of 35 attempts, including 5-19 from beyond the arc.

Siddiq Canty was instrumental in Graceland's first-half efforts, scoring 17 points on 7-for-12 shooting, including two from downtown. Canty's aggressive play on offense allowed Graceland to stay in control despite Clarke's defensive pressure. Darrius Davis also made his presence felt, contributing seven points and six rebounds in the first half.

Clarke's Maximiliano Bowman helped keep the Crusaders within striking distance hitting three of six 3-point attempts to finish the half with 12 points. The Yellowjackets ended the half narrowly leading, 37-35, after Clarke's late surge brought them within two.

The Yellowjackets jumped out of the gates strong in the second half which proved vital in the outcome of the game. GU's defensive efforts held Clarke to 35.5% shooting in the second half, holding the Crusaders to just over 27% from three. Graceland's defense forced 13 total turnovers in the game, converting them into 19 points. Graceland's offense executed well in transition and capitalized on Clarke's errors.

Siddiq Canty maintained his scoring prowess in the second half, finishing with a game-high 30 points on 13-for-23 shooting. His ability to get in the paint off the dribble and knock down perimeter shots with consistency gave Graceland the offensive momentum needed to pull away. Canty also contributed four assists, further showcasing his role as the offensive engine for the Yellowjackets.

Graceland's rebounding efforts were anchored by Darrius Davis, who recorded a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds. Davis was a force on the boards, grabbing three offensive rebounds and securing nine defensive boards, which limited Clarke's second-chance opportunities. "Darrius was relentless on the boards and made great reads off drives to get drop-down finishes," said Coach Lorenson, highlighting Davis's impact on both ends of the floor.

Cole Bowen was also active in the paint, adding 11 rebounds and seven points while distributing six assists. Bowen's performance added depth to Graceland's rebounding and playmaking, allowing the Yellowjackets to maintain offensive fluidity and defensive pressure throughout the half.

Graceland shot 43.3% from the field for the game, converting 29 of 67 field goal attempts. They were consistent at the free-throw line, making 12 of 16 attempts for a 75% shooting rate. Graceland's defense held Clarke to 41% shooting, including 31.8% from 3-point range. The Yellowjackets managed to match Clarke in rebounds, with both teams securing 40 boards, underscoring Graceland's balanced approach to both offense and defense.

Other notable contributors included Carter Brown, who chipped in with 14 points, going a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line and hitting three 3-pointers. Carson Busch provided a lift off the bench, adding 10 points and converting two of five attempts from beyond the arc.

The Yellowjackets took control in the final five minutes of the game, where they executed a series of in-game adjustments that stymied Clarke's offense and allowed Graceland to seal the win. Graceland led by as much as 19 points late in the second half, showing its ability to finish off an important early season road win, 79-62.

Scoring Leaders: Siddiq Canty (30 points), Carter Brown (14 points), Darrius Davis (14 points)
Rebounds: Darrius Davis (12), Cole Bowen (11)
Assists: Cole Bowen (6), Siddiq Canty (4)
Field Goal Percentage: Graceland 43.3%, Clarke 41%
3-Point Percentage: Graceland 29%, Clarke 31.8%
Free Throw Percentage: Graceland 75%, Clarke 55.6%

The Yellowjackets will look to extend their winning streak when they return to their home court on Saturday, November 16, to face Missouri Valley College. Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. at the Morden Center in Lamoni, Iowa.

For more information on the Graceland men's basketball team and all of Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.