Mustangs Secure a Commanding Victory Over the Statesmen

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — The Mount Mercy women's basketball team delivered a decisive 63-38 win against William Penn University on January 15 at the Hennessey Rec Center. The Heart of America Conference matchup saw the Mustangs leverage a strong start and relentless defense to secure their ninth conference victory.

Mount Mercy (11-6, 9-5 Heart) opened with a commanding 22-10 lead in the first quarter, fueled by effective ball movement and precise shooting. Ellie Morrill paced the Mustangs with a game-high 18 points, shooting 6-for-8 from the field and a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line. She also recorded nine rebounds, narrowly missing a double-double.

Annika Headington contributed a balanced effort with 12 points, seven rebounds, and three assists, while Malie Marfil added 11 points, including two key three-pointers. The Mustangs demonstrated their depth as ten players contributed to the scoring column.

Defensively, Mount Mercy held William Penn (2-14, 1-11 Heart) to just 26.4% shooting from the field and 28.6% from beyond the arc. In the fourth quarter, the Mustangs' defense intensified, limiting the Statesmen to only five points.

William Penn's Aysia Arrowood led her team with five points and seven rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Statesmen struggled against Mount Mercy's efficient defense, committing 20 turnovers.

The Mustangs maintained control on the boards with a 35-27 rebounding advantage and showcased superior shooting at the charity stripe, converting 78.9% of free throws.

Mount Mercy will look to extend their winning streak as they travel to face off against the MidAmerica Nazarene Pioneers on January 18. Tip-off is set for 12:00 P.M.