Olathe, Kan. - The Central Methodist Men's Basketball team picked up a 90-86 victory over Heart Preseason favorite MidAmerica Nazarene University, 90-86, Wednesday night in Olathe, Kansas.
The Eagles improve to 9-1 and 5-1 in the Heart of America, while MNU falls to 4-3 and 3-2 in conference action.
Central held a double-digit lead at the 6:44 mark of the first half, before MNU clawed their way back to tie the game at 39-39 at the break.
The Eagles outscored MidAmerica Nazarene 51-47 in the second half, leading by as many as 15 points. MNU came within striking distance in the closing minutes of the game, but key free throw makes kept Central out in front.
Reigning Heart Player of the Week TreVon Smith scored a season-high 31 points on nine-of-19 shooting from the floor and a perfect 11-of-11 from the charity stripe.
Trey Sinegal scored a season-high 20 points in just 18 minutes off the bench. The junior guard knocked down four three-point baskets and shot 80 percent from the free throw line.
Marcus Anthony was the final Eagle to land in double figures with 15 points.
Central did its damage from the charity stripe, knocking down 23-of-24 of its free throw attempts for an outstanding 95.8 percent.
The Pioneers just outrebounded CMU 35-33.
Central will next face Graceland University Saturday, Dec. 9 at 4:00 p.m. in Lamoni, Iowa. The Yellowjackets are currently atop the Heart standings with a perfect 5-0 record.
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