Mankato, Minn. --- Upper Iowa’s Jake Hughes hit a layup with four-tenths of a second remaining to propel the Peacocks to a 61-60 victory over #20 Minnesota State Saturday evening in front of 1,102 fans in the Taylor Center.

The Mavericks struggled from the beginning as they fell behind 20-2 with 11:55 remaining in the first half. 

Minnesota State then embarked on a 25-11 run to cut the deficit to 31-27 with 3:29 remaining in the half.  Both teams traded shots before sophomore guard Zach Monaghan drilled a three-quarter court shot at the break to cut the lead to 35-31.

MSU shot 40 percent in the first half, while UIU hit on 51.7 percent of its chances. 

Both teams traded baskets throughout the first 13 minutes of the second half as UIU held a 57-52 lead with 6:01 remaining.  The Mavericks battled back with a 7-2 run to knot the game at 59 as junior guard Jimmy Whitehead hit a lay-up with 69 seconds remaining.

Both teams would trade empty possessions before sophomore center Assem Marei hit the backend of a two-shot attempt at the free throw line, which ultimately set up Hughes’ heroics.

Marei led the Mavericks with a 17 points and 12 rebounds, recording his first career double-double.  Junior guard Gage Wooten added ten points in the loss.

Minnesota State shot 37 percent for the game while UIU hit on 49.1 percent of its opportunities.

The Mavericks (6-1, 2-1 NSIC) return to action Friday when they travel to Southwest Minnesota State.  Game time is set for 8 p.m.