Men power to 4-0 start

The MVNU men’s basketball team (4-0) stayed undefeated with two non-conference wins this week, beating out Carlow University 122-74 and the University of Northwestern Ohio 81-59.

Junior Joey Schmitz powered the Cougars past Carlow making seven of his nine three-point attempts, racking up 21 points.

Senior Deontae Cole chipped in 16 points and six rebounds while senior Josh Ashwill scored 11 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out eight assists.

Cougars Head Coach Jared Ronai was pleased with how MVNU moved the basketball.

“We passed up good shots for great shots,” Ronai said.

According to Ronai, the key to success was the Cougars’ pressure.

“Our pace and pressure really became a factor in the second half,” Ronai said.

Coach Ronai credits MVNU’s energy and activity level for the fourth win of the season.

“To win on the road in college basketball, those two areas must be high,” Ronai said. “I’m really proud of our guys and their effort against a very talented team.”

The Cougars’ offensive attack was led by Cole and freshman Trey McBride. McBride finished with 18 points (8-12 FG) and five rebounds while Cole added 14 points (6-7 FG). Cole was two for two on the three-point line.

Cole said the Cougars’ execution in the second half made the difference.

“We played a great game against a good team and executed well,” he said.

As the Cougars look toward the MVNU Homecoming Classic, they will prepare like every other week.

“It’s just another game. We have to go into it with a good attitude and play hard,” Cole said.

The Cougars will host Lourdes University on Friday at 7:30 p.m. as part of the MVNU Homecoming Classic.