Game Recap: Defensive Masterclass Propels Lancers Over Hastings

Date: January 28, 2026 Final Score: Mount Marty 64, Hastings 52

The Mount Marty Lancers (11-9, 10-5 GPAC) proved that defense wins massive conference games—by mounting an incredible second-half comeback to stifle the Hastings Broncos. Trailing 38-29 at the break, the Lancers hit the "lockdown" button, holding Hastings to a meager 14 points in the entire second half to secure the double-digit victory.

Lancer Standouts

• Deegan Williams: The engine of the Lancer offense and defense, Williams stuffed the stat sheet with a team-high 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals. He was clinical at the charity stripe, finishing a perfect 8-of-8 from the free-throw line.

• Tyler Sandoval: Provided a huge spark off the bench, matching Williams with 8 rebounds and contributing 13 points on efficient 5-of-7 shooting.

• Damon Opdahl: Knocked down three critical shots from beyond the arc to finish with 10 points and 5 rebounds.

• Sutton Arend & Jake Jensen: Combined for 16 points, providing veteran stability during the Lancers' second-half surge.

The Turning Point

This game was won on the defensive end of the floor. After allowing Hastings to shoot reasonably well in the first half, Mount Marty adjusted their scheme and dominated the glass. The Lancers out-rebounded the Broncos 38-30, which, combined with forcing 16 turnovers, allowed them to dictate the tempo of the comeback.

Mount Marty's ability to turn defense into offense was the difference; they wore Hastings down, eventually taking the lead and sealing the game with disciplined free-throw shooting. Holding a GPAC opponent to just 30% shooting from the field is a statement performance as the Lancers improve to 10-5 in conference play.