Career-Night for Heiss Pushes MVNU to Victory over Goshen

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men's basketball team (12-6, 4-4 CL) hosted the Goshen College Maple Leafs (7-11, 0-8 CL) at Ariel Arena on Wednesday, January 14. 

MVNU started the game hot, hitting six of its first eight threes. Leading 13-11, MVNU nailed threes on four straight possessions to take a 25-11 advantage with 12:28 remaining in the first half. While the Cougars maintained the lead for the majority of the first, Goshen rallied back to take a 42-41 lead with 51 seconds before halftime. MVNU responded with a quick 4-0 run to take a 45-42 lead into the break. 

The game remained tight in the beginning of the second half, but the Cougars began to find their rhythm to extend their lead. Holding a 56-55 lead with 14:29 remaining, MVNU delivered a huge 13-0 run to take control of the game for good. The Cougars would win their fourth Crossroads League game of the season in the end by a final score of 93-84. 

Peyton Heiss was sensational for MVNU on the night, finishing with a career-high of 32 points on 7-15 shooting from the field and 5-10 shooting from three. The sophomore also pulled down a team-high 12 rebounds. Trent Koning had 16 points, eight assists, and four steals. Abib Abib had 14 points, 10 boards, and four assists. 

Coach Ronai's Thoughts 

"Proud of our group and their toughness. All Crossroads League games present a variety of challenges. We responded well to some adverse moments, and a lot of guys contributed. We're excited to get better tomorrow." 

What's Next 

MVNU will be traveling to Upland, Indiana to take on the Trojans of Taylor University on Saturday, January 17 at 3:00 p.m.  

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,200 students from 36 states, 1 U.S. commonwealth and 41 foreign countries.