Graceland Falls to Grand View in Fourth-Quarter Struggles

Lamoni, Iowa – The Graceland University women's basketball team battled throughout the night but could not overcome a late-game scoring drought, falling 78-67 to Grand View inside the Morden Center. The Yellowjackets (8-17, 6-15 Heart of America Athletic Conference) led after three quarters but were outscored 21-7 in the final frame as the Vikings (19-6, 17-4 Heart) secured the road victory.

Game Recap

Graceland opened the game strong, shooting 50% from the field in the first quarter and taking a 19-17 lead. The Yellowjackets continued to push offensively, utilizing efficient perimeter shooting and solid ball movement. Kymani Freeman connected on multiple three-pointers, while Maxine Ampofo provided a presence in the paint.

Grand View responded in the second quarter, taking advantage of second-chance opportunities and converting at the free-throw line. Ella Larsen and Cleao Murray combined for 13 points in the period, helping the Vikings edge ahead 38-37 at halftime.

The third quarter saw Graceland put together its most productive stretch, scoring 23 points on 72.7% shooting. Camila Barreno hit a pair of threes, and Sophia Rodriguez added two more from beyond the arc, propelling the Yellowjackets to a 60-57 lead entering the fourth quarter.

However, the momentum shifted drastically in the final 10 minutes. Graceland went cold from the field, shooting just 15.4% in the fourth quarter and failing to convert a single three-pointer. Grand View capitalized on defensive stops and transition play, closing the game on a 21-7 run to secure the win.

Stat Leaders

Graceland was led by Freeman, who posted 18 points, six rebounds, and one steal, while shooting 3-of-8 from beyond the arc. Ampofo added 14 points and six rebounds, going 4-of-5 from the free-throw line. Barreno finished with 14 points, five assists, and two rebounds, while Rodriguez contributed 11 points on 3-of-5 shooting from three.

Grand View was paced by Murray, who poured in 21 points on 9-of-19 shooting. Larsen recorded a double-double with 21 points and 12 rebounds, while Anna Gossling added 18 points and eight rebounds.

Team Comparison

• Field Goal Percentage: Graceland 42.9% (24-56), Grand View 40.3% (29-72)
• Three-Point Shooting: Graceland 40.0% (8-20), Grand View 13.6% (3-22)
• Free Throws: Graceland 68.8% (11-16), Grand View 63.0% (17-27)
• Rebounding: Grand View 42, Graceland 27
• Turnovers: Grand View 7, Graceland 12

Coach's Perspective

Despite the loss, the Yellowjackets showed flashes of strong execution and ball movement. Head coach [Coach's Name] acknowledged the team's fight but emphasized the need for a full 40-minute effort:

"We played with great energy through three quarters, but we have to find ways to close out games. Grand View took advantage of their size and second-chance points late, and we struggled to get clean looks in the fourth. That's an area we have to improve on as we head into the final stretch of the season."

Next Up

Graceland will look to bounce back on Saturday, February 15, when they host Baker University at 2:00 p.m. inside the Morden Center in Lamoni, Iowa.

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