MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State  (10-9, 4-7 NSIC) secured an 80-77 victory over Minnesota Duluth (10-7, 6-5 NSIC) on Friday night at Bresnan Arena in Taylor Center. The Mavericks capitalized on their three-point shooting, hitting 12-of-24 attempts, which contributed significantly to their win.

Minnesota State opened the first half with a layup by junior Traijan Sain and quickly found rhythm beyond the arc, led by junior Arhman Lewis and freshman Colton Benson, each contributing key 3-pointers. Defensive stops, including a block by freshman Phoenix Childs and a steal by sophomore Carson Schweim, helped maintain momentum despite turnovers. As the half progressed, both teams exchanged leads, with the Mavericks relying on bench scoring, totaling 20 points. The home team showcased resilience as the game went into halftime tied at 37-37.

Minnesota State began the second half with decisive scoring, maintaining momentum with key contributions from senior Malcolm Jones. Jones opened with a defensive rebound and converted a layup, helping the Mavericks maintain an edge. Sain added consecutive free throws to extend the lead early in the half. Throughout the half, Minnesota State capitalized on offensive rebounds, with junior Caden Kirkman and Lewis contributing crucial points in the paint, including a fast-break dunk by Kirkman. The team's defensive efforts were highlighted by Jones, who secured multiple rebounds and defensive stops.

As the half progressed, Minnesota State maintained composure despite multiple lead changes. A late 3-pointer by Lewis and free throws by sophomore Will Opsahl and Schweim secured a lead that withstood a last-second 3-pointer from the Bulldogs' Jackson Fowlkes. The game closed with the Mavericks leading 80-77, concluding the game with a three-point victory.

Lewis led the Mavericks with 16 points, connecting on four three pointers and dishing out six assists. Jones posted a double-double, scoring 16 points and collecting 13 rebounds. Schweim contributed 15 points, including making three shots from beyond the arc. Opsahl added 11 points and recorded three 3-pointers.

Kole Hanson led the Bulldogs with 22 points, hitting four 3-pointers and adding three steals. Nick Katona dominated the boards, grabbing 11 rebounds alongside seven points and a block. Noah Paulson provided a strong performance with 13 points, six rebounds, and three steals. Fowlkes contributed 11 points and two steals, while Matt Thompson facilitated the offense with four assists.

In their next game, the Mavericks will face Bemidji State at Taylor Center. The matchup is set for Saturday at 3:30 p.m.