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GRACELAND UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Graceland Falls in Overtime on Senior Day Against No. 11 Baker
Graceland Falls in Overtime on Senior Day Against No. 11 Baker

Graceland Falls in Overtime on Senior Day Against No. 11 Baker

Box Score

LAMONI, Iowa – The Graceland University men's basketball team fought hard but came up just short in a heartbreaking 86-84 overtime loss to No. 11-ranked Baker University on Senior Day inside the Morden Center. The game featured 14 ties and 20 lead changes, but Baker sealed the win in the final seconds of overtime.

With the loss, Graceland moves to 21-6 overall and 17-6 in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC), while Baker improves to 24-3 overall and 21-2 in HAAC play.

Senior Day Recognition

Before tip-off, Graceland honored its nine graduating seniors for their dedication and contributions to the program:

Graceland Men's Basketball Seniors

DJ Gilmore
Maijhe Wiley
George Davey
Kevin Cook
Nate Oakley
Nate Cadet
JY Smith
Darrius Davis
Carter Brown

Each senior was recognized in a pregame ceremony, receiving appreciation from teammates, coaches, and fans for their leadership and commitment to the Yellowjackets program.

Game Recap

Graceland started strong, shooting 53.6% from the field in the first half to take a 46-43 lead into the break. Cole Bowen led the way early, scoring in transition and connecting from beyond the arc. Maijhe Wiley and Carter Brown each knocked down key three-pointers, while Darrius Davis controlled the paint, adding a pair of baskets in the opening half.

Baker responded with a strong defensive effort in the second half, limiting Graceland to 47.4% shooting while forcing nine turnovers. The Wildcats capitalized on transition opportunities, outscoring the Yellowjackets 42-30 in the paint. Baker's Nick Whittick and Kaimen Lennox hit key perimeter shots, keeping the Wildcats within striking distance.

In the closing minutes of regulation, Graceland maintained a narrow lead, but Baker forced overtime on a free throw by Ahmed Mahgoub with four seconds remaining to tie the game at 76-76.

Overtime was tightly contested, with both teams struggling offensively. Graceland shot 3-for-4 from the field, but turnovers and missed free throws proved costly. With five seconds left, Baker's Lennox converted a layup, giving the Wildcats an 86-84 advantage. Graceland had one last opportunity, but a desperation shot fell short as Baker secured the win.

Key Performers

Graceland Yellowjackets:

  • Cole Bowen – 29 points (10-14 FG, 2-4 3PT, 7-10 FT), 7 rebounds, 4 assists
  • Carter Brown – 13 points (3-9 3PT, 4-6 FT), 2 rebounds
  • JY Smith – 10 points (4-6 FG, 2-3 3PT), 2 rebounds
  • Darrius Davis – 10 points (4-4 FG), 3 rebounds
  • Micah Lamberth – 8 points (2-5 FG, 4-5 FT), 4 rebounds

Baker Wildcats:

  • Kaimen Lennox – 22 points (9-10 FG, 2-3 3PT, 2-3 FT), 3 rebounds
  • Noah Rigatuso – 20 points (7-11 FG, 2-3 3PT, 4-5 FT), 7 rebounds
  • Ty Henry – 16 points (8-14 FG), 4 rebounds, 5 assists
  • Nick Whittick – 14 points (4-7 FG, 4-5 3PT), 3 assists

Statistical Breakdown

Graceland shot 52.9% from the field and 37.0% from three-point range, while Baker finished at 51.6% overall and 33.3% from beyond the arc. The Wildcats outscored Graceland 42-30 in the paint and converted 26 points off turnovers.

Graceland's free throw struggles proved pivotal, as the team shot 69.0% from the line (20-of-29), while Baker made 75.0% (12-of-16), including key shots in overtime.

Up Next

Graceland will look to bounce back as they return to action against Peru State College on Wednesday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m. inside the Morden Center on Graceland's beautiful campus in Lamoni, Iowa.

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