MANKATO, Minn. --- It proved to be a defensive battle early on Saturday evening in Taylor Center, but #20 Minnesota State would come away with its eighth at home this season as it defeated Sioux Falls 76-62.

With the win, MSU improves to 16-3 on the season, including a record of 11-2 in conference play. With the loss, USF drops to 7-13, with a 4-10 NSIC record.

The Mavericks were led by the senior duo of Assem Marei and Zach Monaghan, who combined for 46 of MSU's points. Marei finished the game with 25 points and nine rebounds, while Monaghan added 21 points and eight.

As a team, MSU shot 45.6% from the field to go along with 32 rebounds and 16 assists. The Mavericks also forced 16 USF turnovers.

Mack Johnson tallied 23 points for the Cougars, while Charles Ward tallied 19 points.

The first half saw the Cougars hold the lead through most of the first 20 minutes of play. USF built an eight-point lead at 21-13 with 7:14 left, but the Mavericks would go on an 11-3 run to take their first lead of the game at 24-23 with 2:49 left in the half. The Cougars were able to retake the lead in the final minutes of the half as they carried a 29-27 lead into the locker room.

Monaghan led all scorers with 13 points, while Marei added six points and five rebounds. The Mavericks also forced 11 USF turnovers.

Johnson led the Cougar offense in the first half with nine points.

The Cougars led throughout the early stages of the first half, but MSU would take the lead for good at the 11:19 mark after Monaghan drained a shot from long range. USF managed to get within one point of the Mavericks but it would get no closer as MSU closed out the game with a 76-62 win.

MSU shot 60% from the field in the second half as Marei poured in 19 points.

MSU continues its season on the road on Friday as they take on the Northern State Wolves. The opening tip is set for 8 p.m.


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