WINONA, Minn. — Minnesota State fell to Winona State 83-75 on Thursday night at McCown Gymnasium.

Despite a strong second half with 42 points, Minnesota State could not overcome the home team's hot shooting from beyond the arc, as Winona connected on 11 three-pointers.

Minnesota State holds a 6-4 overall record and is 0-2 in NSIC play. Winona State stands at 2-5 overall and 1-1 in NSIC competition.

The first half began with Minnesota State battling to keep pace with Winona State. Despite an early turnover, the Mavericks managed to tie the game at 3-3 with freshman Colton Benson's three-pointer assisted by junior Arhman Lewis at 19:27. The Mavericks kept it close, as key free throws by senior Malcolm Jones at the 9:19 mark narrowed the gap to 20-18. However, Winona surged ahead with accurate shooting, including seven three-pointers.

Minnesota State struggled to control the paint, allowing 20 points from Winona State in this area, while managing 14 points themselves. By the end of the first half, the Mavericks trailed 47-33. The game continued in the second half, with Minnesota State looking to close the deficit.

Minnesota State mounted a strong effort in the second half, closing the gap with a 42-point performance. Junior Traijan Sain's early steal and jumper at 19:46 set the tone, while Jones added momentum with a fast-break dunk at 17:47. Despite trailing, the Mavericks managed to outscore Winona in the half, with crucial contributions from junior Caden Kirkman, who recorded multiple rebounds and a key dunk at 3:17. The game concluded with Winona securing a win, 83–75.

Jones led the Mavericks with 24 points, converting all eight of his free throw attempts and blocking two shots. Kirkman contributed a double-double, finishing with 16 points and collecting 11 rebounds. Benson added 18 points, including four successful 3-pointers. Lewis facilitated the offense with nine assists.

Gavyn Hurley led Winona with 18 points and secured 11 rebounds, showcasing strong performance in both scoring and rebounding. Tyler Mason and Alessandro Tonelli each contributed 14 points, with Mason hitting four 3-pointers on nine attempts and Tonelli converting four 3s on just four attempts. Ryan Heise added 15 points and recorded two blocks, providing solid defense alongside his scoring.

Their next game will take place Saturday, Dec. 6, as Minnesota State hosts Concordia-St. Paul at 1 p.m. inside Taylor Center in Mankato, Minn.