Jackets Head into Christmas Break 12-1 After Dominant Win Over Park

LAMONI, Iowa – Graceland University closed out the first half of its season with an impressive 80-62 victory over Park University at the Morden Center on Monday afternoon. Behind a well-balanced offense and strong second-half adjustments, the Yellowjackets improved to 12-1 overall and 9-1 in Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) play. Park fell to 7-7 overall and 6-4 in the conference.

Graceland started the game efficiently on offense, with Carter Brown's opening three-pointer setting the tone for the Yellowjackets. Cole Bowen was dominant in the first half, scoring 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting while pulling down five rebounds. Darrius Davis provided stability inside, collecting six first-half rebounds and adding 10 points. The Yellowjackets shot 57.7% from the field and connected on five three-pointers to take a 38-33 lead into halftime.

Park stayed within striking distance thanks to Jasigha Barnes, who scored nine of his team-high 17 points in the opening period, and the Pirates' ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities. Despite Park's 40% shooting in the first half, Graceland's defensive pressure limited their ability to get consistent looks in the paint.

In the second half, Graceland clamped down defensively and executed with precision on both ends of the court. Head coach Todd Lorenson noted the team's halftime adjustments as a key factor in the outcome.

"We liked where we were at half but also knew we needed to clean up the careless turnovers and be better on the defensive glass," Lorenson said. "In the second half, we limited them to three offensive boards and only had three turnovers."

The Yellowjackets outscored Park 42-29 after halftime, holding the Pirates to 39.1% shooting. Bowen and Davis continued to make their presence felt inside, each recording a double-double. Bowen finished with 22 points on 7-of-8 shooting, adding 12 rebounds and six assists. Davis contributed 14 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks while anchoring the defense.

Carter Brown was a significant offensive catalyst, scoring 17 points and knocking down five three-pointers on 11 attempts. Carson Busch orchestrated Graceland's offense with precision, tallying 13 points and six assists while shooting 5-for-8 from the field. JY Smith rounded out the double-figure scoring with 10 points, providing steady defensive contributions and timely baskets.

"Our balance offensively makes us difficult to prepare for," Lorenson said. "Having five players in double figures is great to see. Darrius and Cole were both huge throughout the game on both ends with double-doubles. Both have been consistent in those areas so far. Carson and Carter are playing like veterans. To combine for 10 assists and 30 points on only 20 shots is outstanding."

Graceland shot 58.5% from the field for the game, including 39.1% from beyond the arc. The Yellowjackets dominated the rebounding battle, holding a 36-23 advantage, and outscored Park 42-28 in the paint. Their ability to limit turnovers – committing only nine on the day – and control the defensive glass in the second half proved decisive.

Park's offense was led by Barnes, who finished with 17 points on 7-of-12 shooting, while Jaden Robinson added 10 points and eight rebounds. However, the Pirates' struggles on the boards and inability to match Graceland's ball movement proved costly. Park finished with just six assists to Graceland's 19 and shot 39.7% from the floor overall.

"To be 12-1 at the break is a testament to our players, but we have a long road ahead to reach the goals this team has," Lorenson added. "We are ready for a break but will also be excited to get back together for the spring semester."

Key Performers

• Cole Bowen: 22 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 7-of-8 FG
• Darrius Davis: 14 points, 11 rebounds, 3 blocks, 7-of-12 FG
• Carter Brown: 17 points, 5 three-pointers, 4 assists
• Carson Busch: 13 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds, 5-of-8 FG
• JY Smith: 10 points, 4-of-6 FG, strong defensive contributions

Team Statistics

• Field Goal Percentage: Graceland 58.5% (31-53), Park 39.7% (23-58)
• Three-Point Percentage: Graceland 39.1% (9-23), Park 36.4% (4-11)
• Free Throw Percentage: Graceland 69.2% (9-13), Park 66.7% (12-18)
• Rebounds: Graceland 36, Park 23
• Assists: Graceland 19, Park 6
• Turnovers: Graceland 9, Park 8
• Points in the Paint: Graceland 42, Park 28

The Yellowjackets will take time off for the Christmas holiday before resuming play in the new year. Graceland will return to action on January 2 at 4 p.m. when they travel to face Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas.

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