SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Minnesota State (7-8, 1-6 NSIC) fell to Sioux Falls (4-8, 2-5 NSIC) 98-90 in a closely contested conference matchup on Saturday at the Stewart Center. Despite scoring 56 points in the paint and receiving 52 points from the bench, the Mavericks were unable to overcome Sioux Falls' 32 free throws.

Minnesota State opened the game with a layup by junior Traijan Sain at 19:25, quickly matching Sioux Falls' initial basket. The score remained within reach for both teams as they traded leads throughout the half. Senior Malcolm Jones contributed offensively and defensively with a layup at 13:20 and a defensive rebound at 8:42, helping the Mavericks close the gap after trailing earlier.

Freshman Phoenix Childs sparked momentum with a 3-pointer at 5:52, followed by a powerful dunk from Jones at 5:22, which brought Minnesota State into the lead. Despite their efforts, Sioux Falls regained control, and the half concluded with the Mavericks trailing narrowly, 44-41. 

Minnesota State and Sioux Falls were evenly matched in the first half, with both teams converting 17 field goals. Minnesota State excelled in points in the paint, recording 30 compared to Sioux Falls' 28, while also generating seven fast-break points. Despite trailing, the Mavericks took advantage of opportunities at the free-throw line, making all five attempts.

Minnesota State opened the second half with defensive pressure, highlighted by Jones's block at 19:31. Junior Arhman Lewis and Jones combined to cut the deficit with a layup and free throw, bringing the score to 44-47. Despite turnovers and fouls, the Mavericks maintained proximity with Sioux Falls, thanks to steady contributions from Jones and Childs under the basket.

As the half progressed, Minnesota State narrowed the margin to one point, 52-53, with a fast-break layup from Lewis at 13:29. Childs's offensive rebound and subsequent layup brought the team closer, but Sioux Falls was able to maintain a slight edge. In the final minutes, Lewis and Jones added crucial points, but the opposition's consistent scoring widened the gap. 

Minnesota State capitalized on a balanced offensive effort in the second half, with its bench contributing 35 points. The visiting team demonstrated efficiency in the paint, scoring 26 points, though they were outpaced on fast breaks by Sioux Falls, who managed 17 points in transition. Minnesota State committed 18 fouls, allowing Sioux Falls to capitalize with 24 free throws as the Cougars locked down the 98-90 win.

Junior Arhman Lewis scored a career-high 25 points while adding nine assists and collecting four rebounds. Jones posted a double-double with 21 points and 12 rebounds, along with two blocks. Childs led with a career-high 27 points, including three 3-pointers, and contributed two blocks and two steals. Sain added eight points and recorded one steal.

Bryon Laue led Sioux Falls with a strong performance, scoring 18 points, making 7 of 14 shots, and grabbing 16 rebounds, including 10 on the offensive glass, while also contributing two blocks. Brogan Madson added 18 points and was perfect from the free-throw line, converting 9 of 12 attempts. Madson also recorded six assists and three steals. Brandon Hrncir matched the team-high with 18 points, shooting 5 of 18 from the field, and pulled down nine rebounds. Jacoby Mehrman provided 16 points on 6 of 11 shooting and added five rebounds.

In their next game, Minnesota State will travel to face St. Cloud State on Saturday, Jan. 3. The matchup will take place at Halenbeck Hall in St. Cloud, Minn. with tip-off set for 2 p.m.