LAKE WALES, Fla. – Warner Men's Basketball battled to the final horn on Friday afternoon but suffered a narrow 66–64 setback to Mount Vernon Nazarene University inside the Turner Athletic Center. The contest featured multiple lead changes and strong defensive play, with the Royals just missing a late opportunity to secure the win.
Marcel Pace turned in an outstanding performance for Warner, scoring a new career-high 17 points on 6-of-12 shooting from the field. Pace added 2 three-pointers and went 3-of-4 at the free-throw line while also grabbing a career-high 7 rebounds, leading the Royals in both scoring and rebounding.
David Darling matched Pace on the glass with 7 rebounds, helping anchor Warner's interior presence throughout the afternoon.
The Royals shared playmaking duties, as Josh Irwin, Bryson Castillo, and Seth Childers each recorded 2 assists. Defensively, Brodie Teke delivered a standout effort, collecting a career-high 6 steals to fuel Warner's pressure and disrupt MVNU's offensive rhythm.
As a team, Warner shot 33.3% (23-69) from the field and 17.9% (5-28) from beyond the arc. The Royals were efficient at the free-throw line, converting 13-of-16 (81.3%), keeping the game within reach until the final seconds.
Despite the result, Warner's defensive intensity and individual career performances highlighted a strong effort as the Royals closed out December play.
Game Leaders – Warner University
Points: Marcel Pace – 17 (6-12 FG, 2-5 3PT, 3-4 FT) Career High
Rebounds: Marcel Pace – 7 Career High; David Darling – 7
Assists: Josh Irwin, Bryson Castillo & Seth Childers – 2
Steals: Brodie Teke – 6 Career High
Up Next:
The Royals return to action on January 3rd, 2026, hosting Florida College at 4:00 PM inside the Turner Athletic Center.
#GodBlessGoRoyals | #TogetherAsOne
