MANKATO, Minn. --- It proved to be another close game between Minnesota State and Winona State, but the Mavericks were able to end their regular season home schedule on a high note as they defeated the Warriors 67-65.

With the win, MSU improves to 17-10, including an 11-10 NSIC record. With the loss, WSU drops to 14-12, including a 9-12 conference record.

The early going of the first half saw the Warriors lead 8-5 just five minutes into the game. The Mavericks would then put together a 13-2 run, including seven points from junior Malik Willingham, to go up 18-10 with 10:21 remaining in the half.

The Mavericks would hold the lead the rest of the first half. Winona State managed to get back within two of the Mavericks at 29-27 with :40 to go, but a three pointer from senior Trevor Moore put MSU up by five a 32-27 as both teams went into the locker room.

Malik Willingham led all scorers in the first half with 14 points, while Moore netted nine points. As a unit, MSU shot 37.5% from the field in the first half.

Connor Dillon led the Warriors with 12 points in the first half. As a team, the Warriors shot 40.9% from the field in the opening stanza.

Nearly eight minutes into the second half, WSU reclaimed the lead at 37-36. The lead would changes hands three more times over the next five minutes as the Mavericks held a 52-50 lead with 5:40 to go.

The Warriors managed to tie the score at 61-61 after a three pointer from Declan Dillon with 1:16 to go, but the Mavericks would outscore the Warriors 6-4 in the closing seconds to claim the 67-65 win.

Malik Willingham led all scorers with 29 points, while Moore finished with 15 points and five assists. Sophomore Kyreese Willingham added 10 points and eight rebounds as well.
As a team, MSU shot 44.1% from the field. The Mavericks also forced 12 WSU turnovers.

Connor Dillon led the Warriors with 20 points, while James Kelley notched 12 points and five rebounds.

As a team, WSU shot 45.1% from the field. The Warriors also hauled in 39 rebounds.

Minnesota State concludes its regular season schedule on the road this Saturday as it takes on Upper Iowa. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.
 
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