Mercer vs. Denver final score: Pioneers stifling in 69-40 victory

The Denver Pioneers picked up their second win of the season, dispatching of the visiting Mercer Bears, 69-40, on Wednesday night at Magness Arena.

Royce O'Neal led the Pioneers with 22 points on 9-of-14 shooting to help snap a four-game losing streak. Denver shot 54% from the field on the night en route to the team's highest point total of the season.

It was a perfect storm for the Pioneers, who forced the Bears into 18 turnovers and 36% shooting from the field with a strong defensive effort. Mercer's 40 points was a season low for any Denver opponent this season. Daniel Coursey, who scored 11 points, was the only Mercer player in double figures.

Chris Udofia, who has struggled early this season, added 14 points, four rebounds and three assists in the win. Brett Olson pitched in 10 points for the Pioneers, who moved to 2-5 on the season.

Denver will take several days off, getting back in action on Dec. 15 when hosting Nebraska-Omaha.