Box Score MANKATO, MINN. --- Minnesota State senior guard Jesse Clark poured in a season and game-high 19 points as the 22nd-ranked Mavericks downed 11th-ranked Southwest Minnesota State, 82-64 in a wire-to-wire victory, in front of 1,403 fans in the Taylor Center on the campus of Minnesota State University.
“We did exactly what we had to do to win tonight,” said head coach Matt Margenthaler. “I was very pleased with our defensive effort which led to a lot of great opportunities for us. We need to savor this win tonight and get ready for a tough weekend next weekend.”
Both teams felt each other out throughout the games opening minutes. Minnesota State would open a 24-13 advantage when junior guard Joe Drapcho sank a three-point shot from the left baseline. MSU then maintained the double-digit lead throughout the half’s final 10 minutes as MSU owned a 42-30 advantage at the break.
After SMSU pulled within six at 42-36 with 18:15 left, Minnesota State’s Jefferson Mason scored eight of the Maverick’s next 11 points to regain a double-digit advantage.
The Mustangs pulled with in eight when Andrew Peschong hit a three from the right-wing but the Mavericks answered on the ensuing possession as Clark drained a three from the left wing on a drive-and-dish from senior guard Jermain Davis.
Following the long-range basket MSU used a 12-3 run to put the game away and never look back.
Clark finished the game connecting on 7-of-10 shots, including both of his three-point baskets. Mason finished with 17 points and a game-high four steals while senior center Travis Nelson added 14 points, nine rebounds and three blocks. Davis – who celebrated his 23rd birthday during the victory – finished with 12 points and three assists.
The Mavericks dominated action in the paint, outscoring SMSU, 44-26, inside the key. MSU also forced 21 turnovers in the win, turning them into 26 points.
Southwest Minnesota State outrebounded MSU, 34-32, marking the first time this year that MSU did not win the battle of the boards.
Minnesota State (7-0, 1-0 NSIC) hosts the University of Mary Friday evening at 8 p.m., as it continues its five-game homestand.
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