ST. CLOUD, Minn. — Minnesota State (7-9, 1-7 NSIC) fell to St. Cloud State (8-5, 6-2 NSIC) 75-67 on Saturday afternoon at Halenbeck Hall. 

Minnesota State opened the first half with a quick start, converting back-to-back 3-pointers by freshmen Colton Benson and Phoenix Childs to lead 6-0. The team maintained momentum due to effective ball movement, as evidenced by junior Arhman Lewis' four assists. The Mavericks capitalized on the Huskies' turnovers, with junior Caden Kirkman contributing defensively with a block and a steal. 

Despite leading 20-14 midway through the half, the Mavericks faced pressure when the Huskies tied the score at 20. In the closing minutes, sophomore Joe Buchanan hit a crucial 3-pointer to narrow the gap to 35-31 at the end of the half, with the Mavericks trailing.

Minnesota State opened the second half with a quick jumper from Benson, but St. Cloud State responded with a 3-pointer to maintain their lead. Childs contributed a 3-pointer at 18:15, narrowing the margin, and a jumper from Lewis kept the visitors close. The Huskies capitalized on fast breaks and points in the paint, sustaining their advantage. Midway through the half, Minnesota State managed to cut the gap with a series of successful free throws and a dunk by Kirkman at 4:55, which brought the score within two. However, St. Cloud State's consistent scoring allowed them to extend the lead again. In the final minutes, the Mavericks attempted to rally with a 3-pointer from Lewis at 0:37, but the Huskies' free throws maintained their edge as they came away with the 75-67 win.

Lewis posted 16 points and recorded eight assists, contributing significantly from the free-throw line with seven made shots. Benson also scored 16 points, converting 6 of 7 free throws and adding two 3-pointers. Childs added to the score with 16 points, making four of six shots from beyond the arc. Kirkman contributed defensively with three blocks and two steals, while scoring eight points. 

Nate Dahl led the Huskies with 18 points, connecting on 6 of 10 field goals and adding five assists. He also contributed eight rebounds and two steals. Lee Marks III supported with 13 points, making 7 of 11 free throws and securing six rebounds. Wyatt Hawks stood out defensively with six blocks, while also scoring nine points and grabbing nine rebounds.

In their next matchup, the Mavericks will travel to face the University of Mary at McDowell Activity Center in Bismarck, N.D. The game is set for Friday at 5:30 p.m. CT.