MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State (6-3, 0-1 NSIC) secured a decisive victory over Waldorf, 119-80, at Bresnan Arena in Taylor Center. The Mavericks dominated in the paint, scoring 64 points, and effectively capitalized on turnovers, adding 13 points from those opportunities.

The game began with the Mavericks establishing dominance early, as junior Caden Kirkman opened the scoring with a jumper in the paint at 19:35. The team quickly built momentum through a combination of strong shooting and defensive play, including a 3-pointer by Colton Benson assisted by sophomore Will Opsahl at 18:53. Junior Arhman Lewis and senior Malcolm Jones contributed significantly with fast-break points and effective rebounds, extending the lead.

The Mavericks capitalized on the Warriors' shooting struggles, as Waldorf went 0-for-9 from beyond the arc in the half. By the end of the first half, the Mavericks demonstrated effective ball movement and defensive pressure, leading 56–19.

Minnesota State dominated the second half, beginning with a strong inside presence from Jones, who scored a layup at 17:33 and contributed significantly to the rebounding effort. Junior Traijan Sain's fast-break layup at 15:58, followed by a free throw, extended their lead, showcasing effective transition play. Lewis and Junior David Harmon added to the offensive surge with timely layups and assists, propelling the Mavericks to a substantial advantage.

The home team maintained their momentum with consistent scoring from beyond the arc and in the paint, highlighted by sophomore Carson Schweim and sophomore Joe Buchanan's three-pointers in the final minutes. Minnesota State outpaced the Warriors with a 63-61 advantage in the half, concluding the game with a decisive 119-80 victory.

Jones tallied 19 points and collected 10 rebounds, showcasing his effectiveness around the basket. Lewis was perfect from the field, scoring 16 points on 7-of-7 shooting and adding four assists. Kirkman also contributed 16 points while grabbing seven rebounds and blocking one shot. Buchanan made an impact from beyond the arc, converting four 3-pointers to finish with 12 points.

Krys Watley led the team with 18 points, making 6 of 11 field goals and going a perfect 5 for 5 from the free-throw line. Carlos Duecker contributed with a flawless shooting performance, hitting all four of his attempts, including three from beyond the arc, to total 11 points. McNeal Thompson added 11 points, converting 4 of 6 field goals and 1 of 2 from three-point range. Cornelius Porter also scored 11 points, shooting 5 for 8 from the field and securing three rebounds. Keon Alexander rounded out the top performers with 11 points and a team-high five rebounds.

In their next game, the Mavericks will travel to face Winona State on Thursday, Dec. 4. The matchup is set to tip off at 5:30 p.m. at McCown Gymnasium in Winona, Minn.