SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — In a tough match at Elmen Center, Minnesota State (17-10, 11-8 NSIC) couldn't hold on against Augustana (17-7, 15-4 NSIC), falling 95-83 on Thursday night. 

The Mavericks ended the first half with a slim 44-43 lead, thanks in part to their sharp shooting from beyond the arc, sinking nine 3-pointers. Both teams battled evenly on the boards with 16 rebounds each, but the Mavericks' bench made a notable impact, contributing 13 points compared to Augustana's four. Although both teams recorded four turnovers, Minnesota State's ability to capitalize on these opportunities kept them slightly ahead at halftime.

The game kicked off with junior Arhman Lewis setting the tone with a 3-pointer, and junior Traijan Sain added crucial points, including a 3-pointer assisted by Lewis, to keep the Mavericks competitive. Effective ball movement and capitalizing on turnovers allowed Minnesota State to edge ahead 44–43 at the break.

Starting the second half, freshman Phoenix Childs hit an early 3-pointer at 19:27, briefly putting the Mavericks back in front. Despite their aggressive play, Augustana surged to a 58-49 lead by 16:02. Sain and Lewis fought back with key baskets, but reclaiming the lead proved elusive. Lewis led the charge with several jumpers, and Sain's late 3-pointer at 48 seconds brought them close. However, Augustana's relentless shooting sealed the deal, and the game closed with Minnesota State trailing 95-83.

Augustana outpaced Minnesota State 52-39 in the second half, thanks to their impressive 67 percent shooting and effective ball movement. Despite the Mavericks' efforts, including eight points off turnovers and a 13-3 advantage in second-chance points, Augustana's 22 points in the paint were crucial. The final score read Augustana 95, Minnesota State 83.

Sain was a standout for the Mavericks with a career-high 29 points, hitting 11 of 22 from the field and five 3-pointers. Lewis notched his second double-double of the season with 19 points and 11 assists, shooting 8-for-18. Freshman Colton Benson added 10 points with three 3-pointers, while sophomore Carson Schweim chipped in nine points, hitting three of four from deep.

For Augustana, Sam Rensch led with 30 points, connecting on 12 of 17 shots, including four 3-pointers, and added two steals. Tameron Ferguson contributed 17 points and 12 assists, shooting 7 for 11. Caden Hinker added 13 points and six rebounds, with three 3-pointers, while Brady Helgren dominated the boards with 12 rebounds.

Up next, the Mavericks head to Wayne, Neb, to take on Wayne State this Saturday, with tip-off set for 3 p.m. at Rice Auditorium.