MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State (4-1, 0-0 NSIC) dominated Crown College with a commanding 106-74 victory on Monday night at Bresnan Arena. Minnesota State capitalized on turnovers, converting 23 points off 15 Crown turnovers, while the bench contributed 63 points.

Minnesota State opened the first half with a strong defensive play, as freshman Colton Benson stole the ball at 19:51 and converted it into a fastbreak layup, followed by a successful free throw to start the scoreboard. The home team maintained a robust pace, highlighted by effective shooting and a high number of steals, contributing to a significant lead. Senior Malcolm Jones and Benson led scoring surges, with multiple successful shots from beyond the arc and inside the paint.

Minnesota State's defense consistently capitalized on Crown's turnovers, allowing only 10 made field goals from the visitors while forcing 12 turnovers. On the offensive end, Minnesota State showcased their shooting accuracy, connecting on 25 of 36 field goals, including nine three-pointers. By the end of the first half, Minnesota State had established a commanding 64-27 lead.

Minnesota State expanded its lead early in the second half with a 3-pointer at 19:00, followed by a layup 30 seconds later, pushing the score to 71-27. Junior Caden Kirkman's free throws and Jones' three-pointer extended their lead. Junior Will Opsahl contributed with an assist, keeping the team's scoring drive intact. Minnesota State consistently found success in the paint, with Benson and junior Traijan Sain making key layups to push the home team's advantage.

As the half progressed, Minnesota State continued to capitalize on their opportunities, with freshman AJ Bender and sophomore Carson Schweim adding to the scoreboard with a dunk and a three-pointer, respectively. The home team showcased effective ball movement and bench contribution, dominating with 33 points from non-starters. Despite Crown's attempts to close the gap, including a series of three-point shots, the Mavericks maintained control.

In the closing minutes, the Mavericks secured their lead with effective free-throw shooting from senior Puolrah Gong and a late three-pointer by freshman Keegan Harney, reaching a final score of 106-74. Minnesota State's solid defensive performance and efficient scoring ensured they stayed ahead, concluding the half with a commanding lead.

Jones scored 16 points, including a 3-point shot, and added five rebounds while collecting two steals. Sain finished with 17 points on a perfect 6-for-6 shooting, including two 3-pointers, and recorded two steals. Kirkman contributed 12 points with five field goals and secured four rebounds. Junior Arhman Lewis provided five assists, showing his playmaking ability on the court.

Tristan Youngblood contributed significantly with 14 points, converting 5 of 9 field goals, including four from beyond the arc. Colby Deluce led the team with 16 points, making six of nine shots and three from three-point range. PJ Ebeling added nine points, dished out four assists, and grabbed five rebounds. Tyler Smith made an impact defensively, recording two blocks alongside two points.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will face Grand Valley State at Stewart Center in Sioux Falls, S.D, on Friday. The game is set for 5 p.m. CT.