MANKATO, Minn. — The Mavericks (13-9, 7-7 NSIC) clinched a solid 80-71 win over Jamestown (9-11, 7-7 NSIC) on Saturday at Bresnan Arena. Minnesota State has now won its last six games.

The first half saw Minnesota State jump to an early lead, nailing 64% of their shots while keeping Jamestown at 48%. Senior Malcolm Jones kicked things off with a steal and a layup, setting the tone. Junior Arhman Lewis and junior Traijan Sain added crucial baskets, keeping the Mavericks ahead in a tight back-and-forth. Notably, Lewis hit 16 points for his fourth straight game, while junior Caden Kirkman showed consistency with at least eight points in four consecutive matches. 

The Mavericks pounced on turnovers, with Jones and Lewis driving the score higher. A series of successful field goals, capped by a Lewis 3-pointer, put the Mavericks up 45-33 by halftime. 

In the second half, the Mavericks kept the momentum rolling. Lewis and Jones scored early in the paint, while Sain made a standout defensive play with a steal leading to a 3-pointer, assisted by sophomore Will Opsahl. Sain's performance hit a season-high 24 points. The Mavericks continued to press their advantage, with freshman Colton Benson nailing a 3-pointer as they maintained control. Minnesota State led 80-71 at the final buzzer, pulling down at least 24 defensive rebounds for the fourth straight game, emphasizing their defensive strength. This marked the fifth time this season MSU shot over 50% from the field, winning each time.

Sain led with 24 points, going a perfect 6-for-6 at the free-throw line and adding two blocks. Jones added 18 points, 10 rebounds for his sixth double-double of the season. Lewis scored 16 points and handed out eight assists, his third consecutive game reaching that milestone.

On the Jimmies' side, Anthony Walters led with 17 points, shooting 5 of 12 and making 6 of 7 free throws, while also grabbing six rebounds. Carson Woodford added 12 points on 6 of 8 shooting, with five rebounds and two steals. Cole Glasgow chipped in six points and a team-high three assists, contributing defensively with two steals and five rebounds.

 Looking ahead, the Mavericks will hit the road to face Minnesota Crookston on Friday, with tipoff set for 7:30 p.m. at Lysaker Gymnasium in Crookston, Minn.