RIO GRANDE, Ohio (Interstat) — Jaelin Johnson scored 26 points and Jaylin Fox added 19 as the Rio Grande Red Storm held off a persistent Mt. Vernon Nazarene squad for a 79-70 victory in a non-conference NAIA men’s basketball game Tuesday night at Newt Oliver Arena.

The contest was an offensive showcase from the opening tip, with both teams trading baskets at a rapid pace in a high-scoring first half. The visiting Cougars came out firing, but the Red Storm matched them shot for shot in a period that saw the two teams combine for 67 points.

Rio Grande carried a narrow 36-31 lead into the second quarter and managed to gradually extend its advantage. The Red Storm offense continued its efficient execution, outscoring the Cougars 43-39 after halftime to secure the nine-point win and improve their season record to 4-2.

Johnson’s game-high 26 points for Rio Grande came on an efficient shooting night, supplemented by four rebounds. Fox was a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line on his way to his 19-point contribution, also grabbing four rebounds.

Trey Robertson orchestrated the Red Storm offense effectively, dishing out eight assists to go with nine points and three steals. Eli Roberts provided a strong presence inside, pulling down six rebounds.

Mt. Vernon Nazarene, which fell to 6-2 with the loss, was led by Isaiah Brown’s 20 points. Brown was a consistent force, getting to the free-throw line frequently and converting his opportunities. Devin Dreier provided a spark off the bench for the Cougars, finishing with 12 points and four rebounds, while Peyton Heiss also reached double figures with 10 points.

Kieran Granville was a standout on the boards for the Cougars, corralling a game-high eight rebounds in just 14 minutes of action.

The game was a tale of two halves defined by offensive runs. Mt. Vernon Nazarene stayed within striking distance throughout, but key plays from Johnson and Fox down the stretch, coupled with Robertson’s playmaking, allowed Rio Grande to maintain control and close out the game.

Rio Grande is scheduled to travel to face Midway on Tuesday, Dec. 2. Mt. Vernon Nazarene will look to rebound at home against Spring Arbor on Wednesday, Dec. 3.