MANKATO, Minn. --- The Minnesota State men's basketball team proved to be in fine form Saturday evening in Taylor Center as it bested St. Cloud State 73-61 in its home opener.

With the nonconference win, the Mavericks improved to 1-2 on the season, while the Huskies drop to 1-3.

Leading for the way MSU in its home opener was freshman Ryland Holt who netted a game-high 23 points, which included an 8-of-10 showing from the field and a 7-of-8 performance from the free throw line. 

Sophomore Kelby Kramer also made his presence felt on the court as he notched a double-double with 11 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. Senior Cameron Kirksey tallied 12 points as well.

As a unit, MSU shot 44.1% from the field. The Mavericks also cashed in on their trips to the line as they connected on 18-of-22 (.818) attempts, including a 13-of-16 (.813) showing in the second half.

A strong defensive showing by the Mavericks in the second half proved to be the difference as MSU allowed just 26 points during the second stanza, with six of SCSU's points coming in the final minute. As a unit, MSU held SCSU to just a 31.3% showing from the field in the final 20 minutes.

The Mavericks also tallied eight blocks in the game, three of which came courtesy of Kramer, while Holt and senior Kevin Krieger each tallied two. Minnesota State also enjoyed a 41-34 advantage in rebounds.

Tevon Marshall led the Huskies with 14 points and five assists, while Andrija Blatancic posted 12 points and three rebounds. As a team, SCSU shot 39.3% from the field, including a 3-of-12 (.250) performance from long range.

Leading 39-35 heading into the second half, the Mavericks maintained their lead throughout the final 20 minutes. With less than 12 minutes remaining in the game, MSU grabbed its first double-digit lead of the game as Holt connected on a pair of free throws to put MSU up 54-43.

The Huskies would not get within 10 points of the Mavericks the rest of the way as MSU outscored SCSU 19-18 in the final 11 minutes to claim the 73-61 win.

Minnesota State continues its season on Saturday, Nov. 23, as it hosts Crown College. Tip-off is scheduled for 1:00 p.m., at Taylor Center.
 
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