MANKATO, Minn. — In a thrilling showdown at Taylor Center, the Minnesota State Mavericks (17-9, 11-7 NSIC) clinched a nail-biting 74-71 victory over Southwest Minnesota State (14-9, 12-6 NSIC) on Saturday. Despite a fierce second-half rally from the Mustangs, the Mavericks held their ground with clutch baskets in the final minutes, stretching their winning streak to an impressive 10 games.

Right from the tip-off, the Mavericks set the tone defensively, snagging five steals in the first half. Junior Traijan Sain's quick fast-break layup at 18:14 got the ball rolling, followed by a strong performance from senior Malcolm Jones, who chalked up back-to-back scores at 15:33 and 15:24. The first half saw several lead exchanges, but Minnesota State's bench was pivotal, contributing 12 points to keep them ahead. A flurry of plays in the paint, capped by junior Caden Kirkman's emphatic dunk and junior Arhman Lewis' free throw, sent the Mavericks into halftime with a 37-28 lead.

Capitalizing on turnovers was key for the Mavericks, who netted four points from fast breaks while enjoying a 12-point boost from their bench. Shooting 45 percent from the field compared to the Mustangs' 38 percent, the Maverick defense stifled the visitors, paving the way for a commanding lead at the break.

The second half kicked off with a bang as freshman Phoenix Childs drained a 3-pointer at 18:15, pushing the Mavericks further ahead. Jones continued his stellar play with a layup and a block, keeping the momentum firmly on Minnesota State's side. As the half unfolded, freshman Colton Benson found his rhythm with back-to-back 3-pointers, thanks to assists from Lewis, extending the Mavericks' advantage. Benson's consistency shines through, having notched at least 11 points in two games on the trot. Sain added to the lead with a 3-pointer at 16:19, while Lewis scored in the paint, ensuring the Mavericks stayed in control.

Despite being outscored 43-37 in the second half, the Mavericks' sharp 3-point shooting—connecting on seven of 17 attempts—provided critical scoring bursts. They've now sunk at least eight 3-pointers in eight consecutive games. The Mavericks edged out the Mustangs on the offensive glass, grabbing seven rebounds that led to second-chance points. When the final buzzer sounded, Minnesota State stood tall with a 74-71 victory.

The Mustangs mounted a late rally, closing the gap, but Sain's crucial 3-pointer at 00:54 was the dagger that secured the Mavericks' win. The game wrapped up with the Mavericks on top, 74-71, fending off Southwest Minnesota State's late surge.

Lewis was everywhere, posting 13 points and dishing out nine assists, while also snagging seven rebounds. Sain was a force with 15 points, including three treys, and added five rebounds and two steals. Jones was solid with 10 points and seven rebounds, along with two steals. Benson contributed 11 points, three from downtown, and four rebounds. Will Opsahl has been on a roll, scoring at least 12 points in three straight games.

For the Mustangs, Jakob Braaten led the way with 18 points, shooting 7 of 10 from the field and 2 of 3 from deep, also pitching in six assists and two steals with seven rebounds. Micah Schlaak was a beast on the boards with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Aeron Stevens and Mekhi Shaw both added 12 points, with Stevens going 5 of 12 and Shaw hitting 5 of 9 from the field, each contributing three assists. Mason Lund brought defensive intensity, securing two steals and four rebounds.

Minnesota State continues its season on the road this Thursday as it travels to Sioux Falls, S.D., to take on the Augustana Vikings. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Elmen Center.