ALLIANCE, Ohio — For the first time in program history, Mount Union is headed to the Elite Eight.
The Purple Raiders took care of North Park 102-85 Friday night in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Division III Men's Basketball Tournament. It marks the 12th consecutive victory for a team that entered the bracket ranked third in the nation.
Before a home crowd in Alliance, Jeffrey Mansfield turned in a complete effort with 24 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Christian Parker scored 21 with eight boards and Collen Gurley added 16 for Mount, which shot 54.1% from the field.
The Vikings (24-6) were solid offensively, but just couldn't keep up with the high-powered Raiders. Marquise Jackson led NPU with 21 points along with five rebounds while Adam Bulwa scored 15 off the bench.
With its first-ever Final Four appearance now on the line, Mount Union will have the privilege of hosting Saturday's national quarterfinals. The Purple Raiders' opponent will be Wisconsin-Oshkosh, with tipoff set for 7:45 p.m. from Timken Gymnasium.