Bradley has career night, but Mustangs can't overcome slow start

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Mount Mercy men's basketball team played an even game against Grand View from a statistical standpoint, but an early lead proved to be the difference. The Vikings defeated the Mustangs 79-69 in a Heart of America Athletic Conference clash at Sisam Arena on Wednesday night. 

Only one rebound, three turnovers, and a five percent shooting difference separated the two teams. Mount Mercy (7-20, 4-18 Heart) held a second chance point advantage and points in the paint favored Grand View (8-20, 6-16 Heart).

The Vikings scored the first five points of the game and set the tone early, never letting the Mustangs re-take the lead. Mount Mercy tied it after an Anthony Horton Jr. jumper at 6-6, but from there Grand View was able to slowly build their lead.

Mount Mercy trailed by as many as 16, but would get as close as seven, 57-50, after a Horton, Jr. layup with 8:22 to play. Jakari Bradley scored 18 of his career-high 19 points in the second half, single-handedly trying to will the Mustangs back into it. Despite the push, Grand View was able to keep Mount Mercy at bay. Cole Hrubes added 17, Horton, Jr., 12, and Ryan Bartley 11. Bradley pulled down seven rebounds to pace Mount Mercy and Horton, Jr. finished with eight assists. 

Mount Mercy hosts 24th-ranked Evangel (Mo.) (20-6, 15-5 Heart) on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 1:00 pm for their Senior Day game at Hennessey Rec. Center. Seven Mustangs will be recognized prior to the tip.