The Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) men’s basketball team (8-5) ended its California road trip with a dominant 101-79 victory over Simpson University (5-7) on Monday, December 16.
The Red Hawks started strong, taking an early lead and controlling much of the first 10 minutes of the game. With seven minutes remaining in the first half, the teams remained neck-and-neck. Tied at 21, MVNU’s offense found its rhythm and began pulling away. The Cougars closed the half on a 24-14 run, taking a 45-35 lead into the break.
MVNU carried that momentum into the second half and maintained control for the rest of the game. The Cougars shot an impressive 61% from the field in the final 20 minutes, keeping the Red Hawks at bay and sealing a decisive 101-79 win. With the victory, MVNU completed its West Coast trip with a perfect 3-0 record.
The Cougars were highly efficient offensively, shooting 56.5% from the field and connecting on 13 three-pointers at a 44.8% clip. MVNU dominated in the paint, outscoring Simpson 42-28, while forcing 10 turnovers and converting them into 17 points. The Cougars also dished out 16 assists while committing just six turnovers and finished a perfect 13-of-13 at the free-throw line.
Bailey Conrad led MVNU with a stellar performance, scoring 29 points on 12-of-15 shooting, including four three-pointers. Conrad also added three rebounds, three assists, and a steal. Isaiah Brown contributed 15 points on 7-of-9 shooting, along with three rebounds and an assist. Peyton Heiss recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, adding three assists and a block. Trent Koning scored 12 points and grabbed four rebounds, while Mason Harvey chipped in nine points and a block, going 3-of-5 from beyond the arc.
Reflecting on the trip, MVNU head coach Jared Ronai praised his team’s performance and growth.
“What an outstanding trip out west,” Ronai said. “Super grateful for the opportunity to be in California growing with our guys on and off the floor. Probably the most complete offensive game we have played thus far. Our young group continues to get better. Excited to get home and have a few days off for Christmas.”
Looking ahead, the Cougars will take a break for the holidays before returning to action at Ariel Arena on Monday, December 30, against No. 23 Rio Grande. Tip-off is set for 1:00 p.m.
