Oskaloosa, Iowa The Central Methodist University men's basketball team fell in a close battle with 6^th ranked William Penn University on Thursday evening by a final of 88-85 in Oskaloosa, Iowa.
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With the loss, the Central Methodist University Eagles; whom are currently receiving votes in the latest NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll, fall to 10-7 overall and 4-5 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play. With the victory, 6^th ranked William Penn improve to 15-2 overall and 8-1 in The Heart.
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Central Methodist came out and battled on Thursday evening against one of the top teams in the nation. The Eagles held a slim 43-41 advantage over the 6^th ranked William Penn Statesmen at halftime. CMU shot 53% from the floor in the first half, as well as shooting 50% (4-for-8) from beyond the three-point arc. And if that wasn't good enough, the Eagles also finished a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line. William Penn on the other hand, shot 44% from the field in the first half, but struggled from beyond the three-point arc and the free-throw line. The Statesmen shot 26% (4-for-15) from beyond the three-point arc and 50% (5-for-10) from the free-throw line.
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Both teams came out of halftime and continued to keep the ballgame close throughout. William Penn would start to separate themselves in the final five minutes, however CMU was in the game until the final horn. After William Penn couldn't convert at the free-throw line with three seconds remaining, CMU would have one final chance to tie the ball game. Cole Adair was set to inbound for the Eagles, but could not find a player open. His heave to center court to try and find an open man was intercepted and the Statesmen held on for the three-point victory.
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In the losing effort, four Eagles finished in double-figures scoring, led by Jay Jones. Jones finished with 23 points on 8-13 shooting. He played all 40 minutes and also tallied five rebounds, five assists and a steal.
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The Eagles close out their roadtrip on Saturday at Graceland beginning at 4pm. The Lady Eagles will precede the Eagles at 2pm.
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For more information about Central Methodist University athletics, visit http://www.cmueagles.com. Follow CMU athletics on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cmathletics and on Twitter twitter.com/cmueagles. �������
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