MANKATO, Minn. --- No. 18 Minnesota State found itself in another close game on the road Saturday evening but it was #7 MSU Moorhead that would come away with the victory as it defeated the Mavericks 76-72.

With the win, the Dragons improve to 24-1 on the season, including a 15-1 NSIC record. With the loss, the Mavericks fall to 16-5, including an 11-4 mark in league action. This is the first time the Mavericks have lost back-to-back games since the 2011-12 season.

MSU Moorhead led throughout the entire first half as it shot 53.1% from the field, including a 7-of-12 (.583) showing from behind the arc. The Mavericks shot 51.9% from the field in the first half.

Halfway through the first half the Dragons led 28-14. The Mavericks were bale to cut the lead to five at 30-25 but the Dragons were able to finish the half on a 17-12 run to take a 47-37 lead into the locker room.

Senior Assem Marei led the Mavericks with 11 points, while sophomore Mike Busack and freshman TJ Lake posted eight. Ngijol Songolo led the Dragons in the first half with 11 points.

The first 6:30 of the second half saw the Mavericks knot up the score at 55 as they outscored the Dragons 18-8. MSU Moorhead regained the lead and held a single-digit lead down to the game's final minute.

With 24 seconds left in the game the Dragons held a three point lead at 75-72. The Mavericks were able to get off a pair of three point shots but neither one was able to drop as the Dragons held on to the 76-72 win to remain perfect at home.

Marei led all scorers with 25 points, while Busack recorded his first career double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Senior Zach Monaghan added 14 points and six assists, while Lake tallied 11 points.

As a team, the Mavericks shot 48.3% from the field, to go along with 35 rebounds and 12 assists.

Aaron Lien led the Dragons with 19 points, while Jordan Riewer added 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists.

As a unit, MSU Moorhead shot 45% from the field, to go along with 10 shots made from behind the arc.

The Mavericks return home for a five-game homestand beginning on Friday as they take on the University of Mary Marauders. The opening tip is scheduled for 8 p.m.

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