JOPLIN, Mo. --- It proved to be a close game throughout Friday evening but it was the Pittsburg State Gorillas that were able to come away with the win as they defeated Minnesota State 62-59 in MSU's season opener.

With the win PSU improves to 1-0 on the season, while MSU falls to 0-1.

The first 10 minutes of the first half saw the Gorillas build a 16-9 lead over the Mavericks. MSU responded with an 18-9 run during the next six minutes, including all 12 points senior Snoop Viser tallied in the first half, to take a 27-25 lead. PSU was able to retake the lead through the final four minutes of the half as it took a 33-31 lead into the locker room.

Viser led all scores in the first half with 12 points, including a 3-of-3 showing from behind the arc. Senior Jalen Pendleton added three points and three assists in the first half as well, while senior Lucas Brown and junior Mike Busack added four points each.

As a team, MSU shot 43.5% from the field in the first half, to go along with a 33.3% showing from behind the arc. MSU also forced nine PSU turnovers.

Jaxon Holden led the Gorillas in the first half with 11 points, while Dakota Jones and Trey Starks each chipped in with six points.

As a unit, Pittsburg State took advantage of MSU's foul trouble in the first half as it connected on 17-of-22 (.773) attempts from the line.

The second half saw the Mavericks battle back and eventually take the lead at 43-41 after a layup from junior Jon Fuqua with 12:09 to go in the game. The lead would change hands four more times during the next four minutes but MSU was able to build five point lead at 56-51 with 7:05 to go in the game.

The Gorillas were able to finish the game on an 11-3 run through the final seven minutes to secure the 62-59 win. MSU had a pair of chances to tie the game in the final seconds but neither shot went in as time expired.

Viser led MSU with 12 points and four steals, while Pendleton added seven points, six rebounds and five assists.

As a team, MSU shot just 36.4% from the field, to go along with 31 rebounds. MSU also forced 15 PSU turnovers.

Holden led all scorers with 19 points, while Starks added 13 points and six rebounds.

The Gorillas shot just 32% from the field, but finished the game connecting on 27-of-37 (.730) opportunities from the free throw line.
 
The Mavericks wrap up play in the MIAA/NSIC Challenge on Saturday as they face Missouri Southern State. The opening tip is scheduled for 5:00 p.m.

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