MANKATO, Minn. --- The thirteenth-rated Minnesota State men's basketball team made it seven straight wins Saturday evening in Taylor Center as it dropped the Wayne State Wildcats 82-62.

With the win, MSU improves to 7-1 on the season, including a 2-0 record in NSIC play. With the loss, the Wildcats fall to 2-6 on the season, including a 0-3 record in league play.

Wayne State led through the majority of the first half as the Wildcats led by as many as nine points on two occasions. MSU powered its way back and eventually took a 35-32 lead into the locker room.

Sophomore Mike Busack led all scorers in the first half with 15 points, while senior Zach Monaghan added 10 points and five assists.

Patrick Kurth led the Wildcats in the first half with 10 points and five rebounds.

The second half saw the Mavericks lead throughout as they led by as many as 26 points, en route to an 82-62 victory.

Senior Assem Marei led all scorers in the second half with 16 points.

Busack finished the game with a new career-high with 20 points, to go along with seven rebounds. Marei added 19 points, while Monaghan notched 14 points and seven rebounds.

As a unit, MSU shot 52.6% (30-of-57) from the field and brought down 37 rebounds compared to Wayne State's 29. The Mavericks saw their bench chip in with 35 points as well.

Kurth led the Wildcats with 12 points and six rebounds.

Minnesota State continues its season on the road on Friday as it takes on the Upper Iowa Peacocks. The opening tip is set for 8 p.m.

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