MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State (5-3, 0-1 NSIC) fell to St. Cloud State (2-3, 1-0 NSIC), 73-53, at Bresnan Arena on Tuesday night. Minnesota State struggled on offense, shooting 29 percent from the field, while St. Cloud State capitalized in the paint with 34 points.

Minnesota State opened the first half by establishing an early rhythm with a dunk from senior Malcolm Jones, assisted by junior Caden Kirkman at 19:09. Junior Arhman Lewis contributed significantly, securing three defensive rebounds and adding a layup at 12:10, which tied the score at nine. As the half progressed, Jones showcased a strong presence in the paint, scoring on both a layup and a dunk, keeping the score close.

Despite these efforts, the Huskies responded with effective shooting beyond the arc, notably from Azayah Washington. The Mavericks stayed competitive with a fast-break 3-pointer from sophomore Joe Buchanan at 2:54, assisted by Lewis, to cut the deficit. The half concluded with the Mavericks trailing, 28–22, but demonstrating resilience through defensive stops and strategic scoring.

St. Cloud State capitalized on a strong bench contribution, scoring 16 points off the bench to secure a lead over Minnesota State in the first half. The visitors had a slight edge in shooting, making 12 of 35 attempts compared to the Mavericks' nine of 35. Minnesota State showed defensive strength with five blocks but was outscored 16 to 12 in the paint. At the end of the half, Minnesota State trailed 28-22.

Minnesota State began the second half with a notable layup by sophomore Will Opsahl, assisted by Kirkman, which brought the score to 30–24. Lewis contributed with a fast-break layup following a steal at 15:47, narrowing the gap to 32–26. Despite these efforts, the Huskies managed to extend their lead with efficient free-throw shooting and timely 3-pointers.

As the half progressed, freshman Colton Benson and senior Chase Bartlett made significant contributions with a jumper and a 3-pointer, respectively, maintaining Minnesota State's offensive efforts. Jones added to the score with two successful free throws at 6:14, reducing the deficit to 50–37. However, the Huskies' consistent scoring, particularly from the free-throw line, helped them maintain their advantage.

In the final minutes, junior Traijan Sain and senior Puolrah Gong added points with a 3-pointer and a layup, but St. Cloud State's scoring continued to outpace the Mavericks. The half ended with a score of 73–53 in favor of the Huskies.

In the second half, the Huskies outscored the Mavericks 45-31, fueled by a strong 14-for-29 shooting performance from the field and converting 13 of 16 free throws. The Mavericks struggled with shooting efficiency, making just 11 of 34 attempts, but managed to secure a 9-5 advantage in offensive rebounds, which helped generate 12 points in the paint. Despite the efforts, turnovers were even at eight apiece, and St. Cloud State capitalized more effectively off those opportunities, leading to a 73-53 edge by the end of the half.

Jones led with 15 points and recorded five blocks, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Lewis added seven points and collected six rebounds, showing versatility. Kirkman posted four points and registered three assists while also recording two steals. Sain scored nine points, including one 3-pointer, adding offensive depth.

Anish Ramlall led the Huskies with 15 points, connecting on six field goals and adding four rebounds. Wyatt Hawks contributed 11 points, bolstered by an impressive 9-of-10 performance from the free-throw line and three blocks. Washington scored 12 points, making two from beyond the arc, while Bob Griechen matched the team's highest score with 15 points on 7-of-13 shooting. Kynan Philippe dominated the boards, grabbing 10 rebounds, and added seven points.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will host Waldorf on Saturday at Taylor Center. The game is set for 4:00 p.m. CT.