ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Pittsburg State defeated Minnesota State 75-53 on Saturday at St. Joseph Civic Arena. The Mavericks managed a 17-point second-half improvement but were unable to overcome Pittsburg State.'s 28 field goals and eight steals.

The Mavericks hold a record of 1-1 overall. The Gorillas are also 1-1 on the season.

Minnesota State began the first half with a 3-pointer from sophomore Will Opsahl, tying the score early at 3-3. Despite senior Malcolm Jones contributing with a tip-in and a jumper, and senior David Harmon adding a layup and free throw, the team struggled to maintain momentum. The Mavericks' efforts in the paint were evident with 10 points scored there, but turnovers and missed opportunities on fast breaks limited scoring chances.

Pittsburg State capitalized on turnovers, scoring 12 points from them, while also securing 14 points in the paint to extend their lead. The Gorillas' bench was also effective, adding 11 points to their tally. The half closed with Pittsburg State leading 37-17.

Minnesota State opened the second half with a layup from Opsahl, but Pittsburg State responded quickly with a 3-pointer to maintain their lead. Junior Caden Kirkman contributed with a jumper and a layup, but Pittsburg State countered with points in the paint and beyond the arc.

Midway through the half, Jones and junior Arhman Lewis each added baskets to close the gap slightly. Opsahl and Kirkman continued to find success inside, but PSU maintained its advantage by converting free throws and scoring on fast breaks.

As the half wound down, sophomore Joe Buchanan hit a late 3-pointer, and Kirkman added another from deep. Despite these efforts, Pittsburg State closed the half strong, extending their lead and ending the game ahead 75-53.

Jones led the team with a double-double, scoring 15 points and securing 15 rebounds. Kirkman contributed 10 points, collected seven rebounds, and recorded two blocks. Opsahl added nine points and five rebounds, while Harmon added seven points.

Connor Rogers led PSU with 20 points, making seven shots from the free-throw line. Donald Coats added16 points also, while Mason English contributed 10 points.

In their next game, Minnesota State will face Central Missouri at John Lance Arena in Pittsburg, Kan., on Friday, Nov. 14. The matchup is set to begin at 3 p.m. CT.