GU Falls in Heart Championship, Secures Automatic Bid to NAIA National Tournament

BALDWIN CITY, Kan. – The Graceland University Yellowjackets fell short in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (Heart) Men's Basketball Tournament Championship, dropping a 74-45 decision to Baker University on Tuesday night. Despite the loss, Graceland's second-place finish in the Heart regular season standings secures an automatic bid to the NAIA Men's Basketball National Tournament, ensuring the Yellowjackets' season will continue on the national stage.

With the defeat, Graceland moves to 24-7 overall (18-6 Heart), while Baker improves to 28-3 overall (22-2 Heart), claiming the conference tournament title.

Game Recap

Graceland struggled offensively throughout the contest, shooting just 26.9 percent from the field and 10 percent from beyond the arc (2-for-20). The Yellowjackets managed to stay within striking distance in the first half, trailing 34-29 at the break, but a dominant second half by Baker saw the Wildcats outscore Graceland 40-16 over the final 20 minutes.

Baker capitalized on its efficient shooting, knocking down 44.8 percent of its three-point attempts (13-for-29) while maintaining control on the defensive end. Ahmed Mahgoub led all scorers with 24 points, six rebounds, and six three-pointers, while Noah Rigatuso added 17 points and six rebounds for the Wildcats.

Graceland was led by Cole Bowen, who finished with 17 points and five rebounds, while Darrius Davis contributed 10 points and a team-high nine rebounds. The Yellowjackets struggled to generate consistent scoring, with no other player recording more than six points.

Key Statistics

• Field Goal Percentage: Graceland – 26.9% (14-52), Baker – 45.3% (24-53)
• Three-Point Percentage: Graceland – 10.0% (2-20), Baker – 44.8% (13-29)
• Free Throw Percentage: Graceland – 88.2% (15-17), Baker – 72.2% (13-18)
• Rebounds: Graceland – 34, Baker – 38
• Turnovers: Graceland – 17, Baker – 16

First Half Recap

Graceland opened the game with solid defensive energy but struggled to establish an offensive rhythm. Baker's Noah Rigatuso and Ahmed Mahgoub combined for four early three-pointers, giving the Wildcats a slim edge. The Yellowjackets found success in the paint, with Bowen and Davis scoring inside, but a cold shooting stretch late in the half allowed Baker to build a five-point lead at the break.

Second Half Recap

Baker took control early in the second half with an 11-2 run, sparked by back-to-back three-pointers from Mahgoub. Graceland's offense continued to struggle, making just 7-of-29 shots in the half and failing to connect on any of its nine three-point attempts.

Baker extended its lead to double digits midway through the half and never looked back, holding Graceland to just 16 second-half points. The Wildcats dominated in transition and capitalized on turnovers, turning 17 Graceland giveaways into 17 points.

Coach's Comments

Following the game, head coach Todd Lorenson acknowledged the disappointment of the result but emphasized the team's focus moving forward.

"Obviously, we're not thrilled with tonight's result, but we still have a very exciting opportunity in front of us with the national tournament. We need to rest, regroup, and prepare for it because everything we've worked for is still ahead of us."

What's Next?

Despite the loss, Graceland has secured an automatic bid to the NAIA Men's Basketball National Tournament, thanks to its second-place finish in the Heart regular season standings. The Yellowjackets will now await their tournament matchup, which will be revealed during the NAIA Men's Basketball Selection Show on Wednesday, March 6, at 6 p.m. Fans can watch the selection show live [here] to see where Graceland is headed and who they will face in the opening round.

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