BISMARCK, N.D. — Minnesota State  (8-9, 2-7 NSIC) edged the University of Mary (5-10, 3-6 NSIC) 68-65 in a tense conference matchup on Friday night. Minnesota State secured the victory with a strong second-half performance, overcoming a five-point halftime deficit.

Minnesota State began the first half by matching an early lead from UMary, managing to keep the score close throughout. Juniors Traijan Sain and Arhman Lewis contributed with key layups and assists to keep the pressure on the home team. Midway through the half, sophomore Will Opsahl's back-to-back 3-pointers, assisted by Lewis, helped the Mavericks recover from a deficit and briefly take the lead. UMary responded with a series of successful plays in the paint, regaining the advantage. However, Minnesota State sophomore Carson Schweim closed the half with a critical 3-pointer, reducing the deficit to five points at 36–31.

Minnesota State opened the second half by narrowing the gap with a pair of free throws from Sain, which were quickly followed by a 3-pointer from freshman Colton Benson, bringing the score to 39–36 in favor of UMary. The team then capitalized on defensive rebounds and another three-pointer by Schweim to keep the game close. Midway through the half, the Mavericks continued to assert themselves with a layup from Opsahl and a key defensive stop. Sain's successful free throws and a subsequent 3-pointer gave Minnesota State a slim advantage. Defensively, junior Caden Kirkman contributed with a block and several rebounds, aiding in maintaining the close scoreline. 

With a 66-65 lead in the closing seconds, Lewis secured a defensive rebound and converted crucial pair of free throws to extend the lead to put MSU up by three at 68-65 with 20 seconds to go. A missed three pointer by UMary and strong defense by the Mavericks, locked down the 68-65 win for the Mavericks.

Minnesota State secured the win by capitalizing on free throw opportunities, converting 7-of-8 attempts in the final 3:44 of the game. This efficiency from the line was pivotal in a game where both teams were tied on four occasions and exchanged leads three times each. The Mavericks also outperformed Mary on the boards, finishing with a 42-36 rebounding advantage.

Sain led with 18 points and converted 7 of 8 free throws. Lewis scored 13 points and recorded six assists. Opsahl also added 13 points, making 5 of 8 field goals. Schweim contributed with 13 points, hitting three 3-pointers and collecting eight rebounds. Kirkman finished with 11 rebounds and added six points.

Kelton Coleman led UMary with 21 points, converting 9 of 11 field goals and adding two steals and three assists. Noah Thomas contributed 12 points, sinking 4 of 9 three-point attempts. Jackson Ware provided defensive support with two blocks and five rebounds.

In their next game, Minnesota State will travel to face Minot State on Saturday. Tip-off is set for 3:30 p.m. at Minot State Dome in Minot, N.D.