DES MOINES, IOWA - The Vikings returned to Sisam Arena for the first time since mid-November as they hosted MidAmerica Nazarene. The Vikings brought the heat late in the second quarter, sparking a comeback attempt, but the Pioneer's offensive glass pressure would crack the try as they escaped with a win over Grand View, 79-86.
HOW IT HAPPENED -
The Vikings held two leads in the first half, one being early on by five points; their second lead came at the media timeout after the night's leading scorer for the Vikings,
Markell Hood, sank half of a FT attempt. The Pioneers found a 5-0 run late in the first quarter, but the Vikings found an answer to keep within reach.
Cecil Lee III had an and-one opportunity but settled for two after missing a free throw, sending the Vikings down just three after the first twenty.
The Vikings brought the pressure early in the first part of the second half; attacking the basket was Connor Roberston - after connecting on a pair of free throws, the Vikings held their first, second-half lead. After going back and forth,
Jacob Koontz found an equalizer with a pair of free throws, as both teams sat at 51.
Kino Thompson gave the Vikings their biggest lead in the second half after hitting a three with just four minutes left of regulation. The Pioneers grabbed three offensive boards to regain the lead in one possession. The Vikings remained tied with MNU, but the following possession would be the dagger as the Pioneers secured another offensive rebound, leading to a three-pointer. MidAmerica stayed on top and escaped with an 86-79 win over the Viking's valiant effort.
GAME NOTES -
- The difference in the contest was second-chance points. The Pioneers found 16 points to the Vikings, four off offensive boards.
- GVUs bench outscored the Pioneers 18-9.
- The Vikings tied the score six times.
WHAT'S NEXT?
The Vikings will have a quick turnaround as they host the Ravens of Benedictine College on Tuesday this coming week; the Vikings and Ravens will tip at 7:30 p.m.
