MANKATO, Minn. — The Minnesota State Mavericks (20-11, 13-9 NSIC) clinched a 74-62 win over Winona State (9-19, 8-14 NSIC) Wednesday night at Taylor Center. The Mavericks capitalized on second-chance points, outpacing the Warriors 16-6 in that department and grabbing at least 11 offensive rebounds for the sixth straight game.

MSU came out firing, sinking 10 threes early and finishing with 12, exceeding their season average of 9.58. This was the first time since Nov. 21, 2023 against Dakota State that the Mavericks have recorded at least 10 three pointers in a half. 

Thanks to sharpshooters like junior Caden Kirkman, who went 4-for-5 from downtown, and junior Traijan Sain, who dished out key assists, the Mavericks stayed hot. Dominating the boards with 23 rebounds to Winona State's 14, they kept their offensive rhythm flowing.

Defensively, the Mavericks held their ground, limiting the Warriors to just 11 field goals in the first half. MSU's bench chipped in with 13 points, wrapping up the half with a solid 44-30 lead, built on sharp shooting and smooth ball movement.

The second half saw the Mavericks maintain their grip. Kirkman nailed a crucial three-pointer at the 9-minute mark, contributing to a 10-point half for him. MSU's defense remained tight, pulling down 14 defensive boards and stifling Winona's scoring chances.

Despite the Warriors' attempts from beyond the arc, MSU's steady scoring kept them ahead. The Mavericks sealed the game at 74-62, extending their lead as they cruised to victory.

Kirkman led MSU with 18 points, hitting four threes, blocking two shots, and grabbing eight rebounds—marking his third consecutive game with at least eight boards. Senior Malcolm Jones was a force with 11 rebounds and 11 points, going 5-for-7 from the field, notching his seventh double-double this season. Junior Arhman Lewis added 13 points and was a playmaking engine with six assists, surpassing his average of 5.62. Freshman Colton Benson chipped in 13 points, including three from deep, plus three rebounds.

For the Warriors, Alessandro Tonelli scored 20 points, making 5 of 10 from three-point range, with five boards. Ryan Heise tallied a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, 10 of those defensive. Tyler Borowski added 11 points, hitting three from beyond the arc, and snagged five rebounds. Aidan Bardic facilitated with five assists and six rebounds.

Minnesota State continues its season on Sunday in the second round of the NSIC Tournament as the Mavericks take on Southwest Minnesota State. Tip-off is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, S.D.