WAYNE, Neb. --- It proved to be an offensive battle Friday evening but it was #16 Minnesota State that would come away with the road victory as it defeated Wayne State 89-83 for its 12th win of the season.

With the win, the Mavericks improve to 12-2 on the season, including a 7-1 NSIC record. With the loss, Wayne State falls to 3-12, including 0-9 record in league play.

Minnesota State and Wayne State saw both of their offenses clicking in the first half as MSU took a 53-39 lead into the locker room. MSU's 53 points were the most the Mavericks have scored in the first half this season.

As a team, MSU shot 18-of-32 (.563) from the field, including a 9-of-14 (.643) showing from long range. Seniors Assem Marei and Zach Romashko led all scorers in the first half with 12 points, while senior Zach Monaghan passed out six assists.

Wayne State shot 48.5% from the field in the first half, including a 50% showing from three point range.

The Mavericks maintained their double-digit lead through most of the second half, but the Wildcats managed to cut the lead to four on two occasions with the last occurrence coming with 37 seconds left in the game.

Three free throws from Monaghan prevented the comeback as the Mavericks held on for the 89-83 win.

Marei led the Maverick offense with 24 points on a 9-of-16 showing from the field. Romashko matched his season-high of 15 points, while Monaghan added 12 points and eight assists. Senior Connor Miller and freshman TJ Lake each posted double-figures in points with 13 and 11, respectively.

As a team, MSU shot 53.8% from the field and hauled in 33 rebounds. The Mavericks passed out 16 helpers and forced eight Wayne State turnovers.

Trae VandeBerg led the WSC offense with 22 points, while Patrick Kurth notched 15 points and eight rebounds.

The Mavericks continue their road trip on Saturday as they take on the 12th-rated Augustana Vikings. The opening tip is set for 6 p.m.

                                                                    -30-