Men's Basketball Stays Perfect with Road Win in Canton
Canton, Mo. — The Graceland University men's basketball team delivered a commanding 77-70 victory over Culver-Stockton College on Wednesday night at the Charles Field House. The Yellowjackets improved to 7-0 overall and 3-0 in Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) play with a performance defined by selflessness and defensive adjustments.
After a tightly contested first half that saw the Wildcats hold a narrow 40-36 advantage, Graceland ramped up its defensive intensity and execution after the break. The Yellowjackets outscored Culver-Stockton 41-30 in the second half, holding the Wildcats to just 28.6% shooting and 21.4% from beyond the arc.
Head Coach Todd Lorenson praised his team's effort and unity. "This was a great team win," Lorenson said. "Our group played so together and for each other tonight. Our defense wasn't nearly aggressive enough in the first half, but the guys did a great job of being more consistent with our system in the second half."
The Yellowjackets' offense was anchored by junior Cole Bowen, who scored a game-high 26 points on 10-of-15 shooting while pulling down 7 rebounds. Bowen consistently attacked the rim, drew fouls, and created opportunities for teammates. Carter Brown was lethal from deep, hitting 5-of-9 from three-point range on his way to a 15-point outing.
Lorenson highlighted Bowen and Brown's performances. "Our offense was solid most of the night. We really played through Cole, and he responded. Carter's a shot-maker, and he was doing just that tonight."
Sophomore Darrius Davis notched his third consecutive double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds while adding 2 assists and several key defensive plays. Davis's presence on the boards and consistency in effort continue to bolster the Yellowjackets' interior game. "Darrius's consistent effort has been rewarded, and it's been great to see him excel," Lorenson added.
Graceland's ball movement was exemplary, as the team recorded 22 assists on 27 made field goals, underscoring their unselfish play. Junior guard Carson Busch dished out 8 assists to complement his 13 points, showcasing his ability to facilitate while maintaining scoring efficiency.
The Yellowjackets' defensive adjustments were crucial in securing the victory. After allowing Culver-Stockton to shoot 66.7% in the first half, Graceland tightened its defensive rotations and rebounding efforts. The Wildcats were limited to 11 total rebounds in the second half, including just one offensive board, preventing second-chance opportunities.
Connor Davis led Culver-Stockton with 17 points, but Graceland's perimeter defense held the Wildcats to just 8-of-23 from beyond the arc for the game. Graceland's own defensive contributions included 4 steals and a key block by Bowen, illustrating their collective effort to disrupt Culver-Stockton's rhythm.
The Yellowjackets will now turn their attention to Thursday's exhibition game against Drury University. The game will tip off at 7 p.m. at the O'Reilly Family Event Center in Springfield, Mo. While the matchup will not impact Graceland's record, it provides an important opportunity to build momentum and continue to improve against a tough, physical opponent NCAA division II opponent.
"Our group is coming together, but there's always work to do," Lorenson finished.
With their undefeated record intact in regular-season play, the Yellowjackets continue to build on a strong start as they prepare for the heart of their conference schedule.
For more information on the Graceland men's basketball team and all Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.