DUBUQUE, IOWA – Grand View men's basketball traveled to northeast Iowa aiming to extend their strong road performances. Facing off against Clarke University's Pride in a mid-week showdown, the Vikings showcased a well-rounded offensive attack and relentless effort on the boards. With key contributions across the lineup, Grand View edged out Clarke 71-66, securing another hard-fought road victory.
In the first half, Grand View and Clarke University engaged in a back-and-forth battle, with the Vikings staying close throughout.
Jackson Green led the charge with 8 points, including a key 3-pointer, while Foster Ayden added 4 points and grabbed four rebounds. Although the Vikings struggled with shooting efficiency, hitting only 40% from the field, they remained competitive thanks to strong rebounding. Clarke, however, hit timely shots, including a pair of 3-pointers from DeMarco Clayton, which gave the Pride a narrow 36-35 lead at halftime.
After briefly trailing by a possession, the Vikings came out strong, with
Ayden Foster contributing key baskets and
Joe Knutson dominating on both ends of the floor. Foster's crucial layup pulled Grand View within one at 39-40, and Knutson's offensive and defensive rebounds helped the Vikings regain control. Grand View's defense intensified, with timely steals and blocks from Green and
Ofek Sirkis. A pivotal 3-pointer from Foster, assisted by Young, gave the Vikings a 52-51 lead with just under 10 minutes remaining, and they never looked back. The Vikings' relentless effort on the boards, particularly from Knutson, extended their lead in the final minutes, with Young sealing the victory by sinking free throws in the closing seconds. Despite a late surge from Clarke, Grand View held firm to secure the win and continue their successful road trip.
In the 71-66 victory over Clarke, several Grand View players had standout performances.
Jaxson Young led the team with 17 points, shooting 6-of-12 from the field and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line, while contributing 3 rebounds and 2 steals.
Ayden Foster added 16 points and 6 rebounds, including a crucial basket during the second half to keep the Vikings within striking distance.
Joe Knutson was dominant on the boards, finishing with a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, including 8 offensive boards that helped create second-chance opportunities.
Jackson Green chipped in 9 points and 6 assists, while also playing solid defense.
Connor Robertson made an impact off the bench, contributing 9 points, including 3 three-pointers. As a team, Grand View shot 77.8% from the free-throw line, which proved vital in securing the win, and their 23 second-chance points and 9 points off turnovers showcased their hustle and defensive effort.
GAME NOTES
- Grand View scored 9 points off turnovers, matching Clarke's total.
- The Vikings dominated in second-chance points, leading 23-3.
- The bench contributed 13 points, while Clarke's bench added only 9.
- Grand View led in points in the paint with 26, narrowly edging Clarke's 22.
- The Vikings scored 2 fast-break points, compared to Clarke's 4.
UP NEXT
The Vikings will wrap up their road trip this Saturday before another home stretch, traveling to Canton, MO for a 4:00 p.m. tip-off against the Culver-Stockton College Wildcats in the final game of their regular-season series.
