Mount Vernon boys’ basketball opened the season 2-0, beating Clinton and Cedar Rapids Jefferson.

“Playing larger MAC and MVC schools is always a challenge that we invite and are glad we got to experience those games and learn from them, while coming out on top,” Mount Vernon Coach Derek Roberts said.

The Mustangs started with a 61-51 win over the River Kings on Friday, Dec. 6, in Clinton.

Senior Joe Briesemeister led the way with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Sophomore Luke Rushford had 18 points, including four 3-pointers. Kellen Haverback added 10 rebounds.

“Clinton was physical and scrappy,” Roberts said.

“We’re proud of how Josef and Luke handled themselves on the court and came through in crucial times for us.”

The next day, Saturday, Dec. 7, the Mustangs hosted the J-Hawks, and won 57-54.

Mount Vernon trailed 42-38 after three quarters, but won the final quarter 19-12.

“We played 10 guys in the first half hoping to be more fresh for the second half, and I think that helped some,” Roberts said. “Jefferson got a little tired late in the game where we maybe seemed a little more fresh. “Our defense came up with some big stops when needed in the fourth quarter.”

Briesemeister again led the scoring with 22 points, but was followed closely by Haverback with 21 to go with eight rebounds and four assists.

“Kellen was really good down the stretch,” Robert said. Cole Thurn made some key defensive plays as well.”

The Mustangs (2-0) played at Benton Community on Tuesday, Dec. 10, and host Williamsburg on Friday, Dec. 13.