Graceland Falls to Missouri Valley Despite Strong Fourth Quarter

LAMONI, IA – Graceland University's women's basketball team faced a challenging home-court matchup against the undefeated Missouri Valley Vikings on Saturday afternoon, falling 66-46 in a contest defined by shooting struggles and rebounding battles. The Yellowjackets dropped to 2-3 overall and 0-2 in conference play as they were unable to overcome early deficits despite a spirited fourth-quarter effort.

Missouri Valley (5-0, 2-0) showcased their balanced offensive attack, shooting 40.3% from the field and spreading contributions across the roster. Meanwhile, Graceland, despite strong individual efforts on the boards, could not capitalize on their opportunities, shooting just 23.8% overall and 14.3% from beyond the arc.

Graceland's Head Coach Willie Scott reflected on the outcome, commending the opposition while emphasizing the resilience of his team. "Missouri Valley did a great job taking advantage of their size," Scott said. "We just couldn't catch a break with our outside shooting today, but we kept shooting. We played better in the last quarter but unfortunately ran out of time and gas. I'm glad we have a couple of days off so Genesis [Alarcon] can take a break from her knee injury."

The Yellowjackets struggled to find offensive consistency in the opening half, trailing 27-21 at the break. Missouri Valley's Ylenia Exposito led the visitors with timely three-point shooting, while Graceland was paced by Genesis Alarcon, who pulled down 14 rebounds but was limited to six points due to relentless defensive pressure. Maxine Ampofo provided a bright spot inside, scoring 10 points and grabbing nine boards to keep the Yellowjackets within striking distance.

The Vikings seized control in the third quarter, outscoring Graceland 21-6 behind a series of fast-break layups and key defensive stops. Rajone Callahan's efficiency stood out, as the guard tallied 14 points on 6-of-7 shooting, including two timely three-pointers. For Graceland, turnovers and cold perimeter shooting proved costly, as the Yellowjackets managed only one field goal from deep through three quarters.

The Yellowjackets displayed their resilience in the final frame, matching the Vikings with 19 points. Jakyah Amous ignited the offense off the bench, scoring 14 points and contributing five rebounds. However, the deficit proved insurmountable, as Missouri Valley maintained composure to secure their sixth consecutive victory.

Key Statistics

• Graceland out-rebounded Missouri Valley 41-39, with Alarcon leading the way with a game-high 14 boards.
• Turnovers plagued both teams, with Missouri Valley committing 19 and Graceland 18, leading to a combined 28 points off turnovers.
• Missouri Valley shot 53.3% in the fourth quarter, ensuring their lead remained intact despite a late Yellowjacket surge.

The Yellowjackets will look to rebound on Wednesday, November 20, when they travel to Canton, Missouri, to face Culver-Stockton College. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 PM inside Charles Fieldhouse.

For more information on Graceland Women's Basketball and all Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.