Bowen’s 42 Points Not Enough as Bellevue Edges Graceland in NAIA Tournament
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — The Graceland men's basketball season came to a close Saturday night as the Yellowjackets fell to Bellevue (Neb.) 95-88 in the NAIA National Tournament Opening Round at Platt Arena.
The loss ended a memorable campaign for Graceland, which finished the season 26-7 overall and 17-3 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play, while Bellevue improved to 24-7 overall and 17-5 in conference competition. The contest featured efficient offense from both sides, as Graceland shot 57.7 percent from the floor and 47.8 percent from three-point range, while Bellevue countered with 56.9 percent shooting and nine made three-pointers.
Despite the loss, Cole Bowen delivered a remarkable performance with 42 points, connecting on 14-of-23 field goals, 4-of-8 from beyond the arc and 10-of-13 at the free-throw line to lead all scorers.
The Yellowjackets established early rhythm offensively and controlled much of the opening half behind strong interior touches and perimeter spacing. Graceland executed its half-court offense effectively, playing inside-out basketball for much of the opening frame. However, Bellevue's ability to push the tempo and convert key transition opportunities kept the Bruins within striking distance.
Head coach Todd Lorensen reflected on that stretch following the game, noting how Bellevue's momentum prevented Graceland from building separation. "They're running in the first half to cut our lead really kept them afloat in the first half. I thought they made multiple tough shots in that segment that prevented us from extending the lead," Lorensen said.
The Bruins eventually edged ahead late in the half and carried a 42-41 lead into the locker room, setting up a tightly contested second half.
In the opening minutes of the second half, Bellevue generated offense through efficient perimeter shooting and strong activity on the offensive glass. Graceland countered with timely scoring from Bowen and key contributions from the supporting cast. Deundra Roberson finished with 19 points, including four made three-pointers, while Carson Busch added 11 points to provide secondary scoring.
Throughout the second half, the game featured multiple lead changes and several extended scoring runs. Graceland briefly regained momentum midway through the period as Bowen knocked down consecutive perimeter shots and the Yellowjackets converted at the free-throw line.
Still, Bellevue consistently responded with timely baskets and second-chance opportunities. Lorensen pointed to those critical possessions as the turning point late in the game. "In the second half they made some key shots when we finally got the ball out of the post and still secured some off the rebound if they did miss, which was probably the difference in the basketball game," he said.
Bellevue capitalized on those moments down the stretch, converting free throws and late possessions to preserve the advantage. The Bruins finished with 30 rebounds and 14 second-chance points, while Graceland collected 24 rebounds and five second-chance points in the contest.
Though the final score favored Bellevue, the game reflected the competitive nature of the Yellowjackets' season and their ability to execute offensively against a strong tournament opponent. As the final horn sounded, Lorensen reflected not only on the game but on the program's continued growth.
"Tonight's a tough one for so many reasons. This group was incredibly fun to be around and extremely talented, so the finality of a season ending is always hard to accept," Lorensen said.
Graceland's season included several milestones, highlighted by a Heart of America Athletic Conference regular-season championship and an appearance in the NAIA Round of 32. Those achievements marked another step forward for the program.
"Our seniors in this group set a new standard for what Graceland basketball should be and can be," Lorensen said. "The last two seasons helped us raise the level and taking another step was an enjoyable process for all of us."
The Yellowjackets will graduate a senior class that played a significant role in the program's recent success, including All-American Cole Bowen along with Runey Hernandez, Micah Lamberth, Carson Busch, Deundra Roberson and Aaron James Jr.
Lorensen emphasized the lasting impact those players had on the program and its culture. "Winning a regular-season conference championship and making it to the Round of 32 are both tremendous accomplishments. This team represented the university and the department in a great manner time and time again, and we are thankful for everything that they brought to us and our fans."
With the conclusion of the tournament game, Graceland's season officially comes to an end, closing a year defined by conference success, postseason competition and the continued development of the Yellowjackets program.
For more information on Graceland men's basketball and all of Graceland athletics visit GUjackets.com.
