Lamoni, Iowa – The Central Methodist University men's basketball team attempted a late comeback on Thursday evening, but fell short at Graceland University, by a final of 78-74 in Lamoni, Iowa.
With the loss, the Eagles fall to 13-10 overall and 10-9 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play. With the victory, Graceland University; who is currently receiving votes in the latest NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll improves to 15-8 overall and 12-7 in The Heart.
Central Methodist struggled in the first half on Thursday, as the Eagles trailed Graceland University 36-29 after 20 minutes of action. Central shot just 12-of-35 from the field, and 2-for-11 from beyond the three-point arc. Graceland University shot 14-of-27 from the field in the first half.
In the second half, the Central Methodist offense came to life, while also shutting down Graceland University with their strong defense. CMU shot 18-for-28 from the field in their comeback attempt, while also shooting 4-of-6 from beyond the three-point arc. Graceland University shot just 8-of-24 from the field, but finished an impressive 21-for-27 from the free-throw line. In the end, the YellowJackets held on for the 78-74 victory.
In the loss, Central had only two players finish in double-figures; with Cole Adair (SR/Fishers, Ind.) leading the way with 17 points. Ron Lee (SR/Oak Park, Calif.) chipped in with 16 points as well, on 7-of-15 shooting.
The Eagles return home this Saturday, to face 15th ranked Grand View University. The men's game is scheduled to begin at 4pm, with the women's game to precede the men at 2pm inside of Puckett Field House.
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.
