Graceland Secures Key Conference Win Over Peru State, Clinches No. 2 Seed

LAMONI, Iowa – The Graceland University Yellowjackets (22-5, 18-5 Heart of America Athletic Conference) earned a crucial home victory over Peru State (20-7, 16-7 HAAC) on Tuesday night inside the Morden Center, prevailing 82-71. With the win, Graceland clinched the No. 2 seed in the upcoming conference tournament, positioning itself for a strong postseason run.

Head coach Todd Lorenson emphasized the importance of securing the win despite some late-game challenges.

"This time of year, it's all about finding a way to get a win," Lorenson said. "Of course, we would have liked to get to the finish line a bit cleaner, but the result was what we needed."

Game Recap:  Graceland started strong, setting the tone early with efficient offensive execution. The Yellowjackets shot 53.3% from the field in the first half and connected on five three-pointers to build a 41-34 lead at halftime. Maijhe Wiley led the charge with 11 first-half points, including three triples, while Micah Lamberth contributed 10 points on 5-of-10 shooting.

The second half saw Graceland continue to control the pace, extending its lead to as many as 21 points. The Yellowjackets' defensive pressure forced 16 turnovers, leading to 25 points off Peru State mistakes. However, Peru State battled back late in the contest, cutting the lead to single digits in the final minutes. Despite the push, Graceland closed out the game with steady free-throw shooting, converting 19-of-25 attempts (76.0%) from the line.

Lorenson credited the team's balanced offensive effort as a key factor in the win.

"Having five guys in double figures is a great sign for our offense," Lorenson said. "We need to continue to have that balance the rest of the way. It is nice to have the No. 2 seed secured, but Saturday is still an important game for momentum and postseason opportunities."

Team & Individual Stats:

• Graceland University (22-5, 18-5 HAAC):

  • Maijhe Wiley: 18 points (7-9 FG, 4-5 3PT), 4 rebounds, 1 assist
  • Darrius Davis: 16 points, 6 rebounds, 2 blocks
  • Micah Lamberth: 15 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists
  • Carter Brown: 12 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds
  • Cole Bowen: 11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists

• Peru State (20-7, 16-7 HAAC):

  • Stephen Coleman: 22 points, 6 rebounds
  • Chris Peoples: 10 points, 5 assists, 4 steals
  • Carlos Hines: 9 points, 2 rebounds, 3 steals
  • Devin Tomlinson: 13 points, 5 rebounds

Graceland finished the game shooting 51.9% from the field while holding Peru State to 48.3%. The Yellowjackets also dominated the rebounding battle, securing 33 total boards to Peru State's 22.

Looking Ahead:  Graceland will conclude the regular season on the road against MidAmerica Nazarene University on Saturday inside the Bell Family Arena in Olathe, Kansas, with tip-off set for 4 p.m.

For more information on Graceland men's basketball and all of Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.