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GRACELAND UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Bowen’s Comeback Not Enough as GU Drops Close One to Park
Bowen’s Comeback Not Enough as GU Drops Close One to Park

Bowen’s Comeback Not Enough as GU Drops Close One to Park

PARKVILLE, Mo. — The Graceland University Yellowjackets battled in a tightly contested conference matchup Saturday but fell 64-61 to Park University in a game that came down to the final possessions. Despite the loss, Graceland saw the return of Cole Bowen, who made an impact in the second half after missing time due to illness.

The loss drops Graceland to 20-4 overall and 16-4 in Heart of America Athletic Conference (Heart) play, while Park improves to 15-10 overall and 14-7 in conference competition.

Game Recap

Graceland struggled to find an offensive rhythm early, shooting just 24.1% from the field in the first half. The Yellowjackets connected on only three of their 12 three-point attempts in the opening 20 minutes and trailed 30-24 at halftime.

Bowen, who played limited minutes in the first half while working back into game form, came alive after the break. He finished with 16 points, four rebounds, and shot 4-of-5 from the free-throw line, leading a second-half surge that saw Graceland shoot 58.3% from the field. Maijhe Wiley added 15 points, including three three-pointers, as the Yellowjackets kept pace in the closing minutes.

With just under three minutes left, Bowen's layup gave Graceland a 57-56 lead, but Park responded with key free throws and a go-ahead score from Abubakar Kromah (19 points, 7 rebounds). The Yellowjackets had a final possession to tie the game but were unable to convert, sealing the hard-fought loss.

Key Performers

Coach's Comments

Head coach Todd Lorenson reflected on the game's intensity and the importance of learning from close finishes.

"Today was a great college basketball game where, unfortunately, our opponent made the last big play of the day," Lorenson said. "We are likely to be in a lot of one- or two-possession games the rest of the way, so it's important we learn from this and be ready for a big week ahead with two home games.

"Despite being rusty in the first half, Cole (Bowen) bounced back to have a very productive game coming back from illness. His presence on both ends of the floor was a big boost for us."

Up Next

Graceland returns home to Lamoni, Iowa, for a key conference matchup against Grand View University on Wednesday, February 12, at 7:30 p.m. in the Morden Center.

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