BEMIDJI, Minn. – Bemidji State University edged Northern State University, 72-70, in a closely contested game on Friday at BSU Gymnasium in Bemidji, Minn. This victory marked BSU's first NSIC win of the season and ended their four-game losing streak.
In the first half, Bemidji State tallied 28 points compared to Northern State's 32. Bemidji State shot 12-for-31 from the field, including three 3-pointers on 14 attempts, while the Wolves matched with 12-for-29 shooting and three 3-pointers as well. Bemidji State scored 18 points in the paint and benefited from six steals but struggled with nine turnovers. Despite an early lead, they trailed by four at the end of the half.
In the second half, Bemidji State outscored Northern State 44-38, leading to a competitive match with several lead changes and ties. Bemidji State shot 16-for-29 from the field, including five 3-pointers, and converted seven of ten free throws. They also managed to score 20 points in the paint and had the advantage in fast-break points with two, while matching Northern State's two points off turnovers. NSU, however, edged out Bemidji State in total rebounds, 16-14, and scored 26 points in the paint.
Jalen Patterson led the Bemidji State team with a standout performance, scoring 20 points on 8-of-16 shooting from the field, including three 3-pointers. He also contributed six rebounds and two steals. In a thrilling end to the game, the Beavers gained possession on a defensive rebound with six seconds remaining, tied at 70-70. Patterson drove up the court and scored with 0.5 seconds remaining to seal the game for Bemidji State.
Malang Athian was efficient, making 8 of 11 field goal attempts to tally 17 points and add four rebounds.
Christian Koonce added 10 points, going 5-of-6 from the free-throw line, and grabbed four rebounds.
Daxton Dayley scored 11 points, hitting three 3-pointers, and also recorded five rebounds and two steals.
John Pecarich was active defensively, leading the team with two steals while contributing five points.
Kaleb Mitchell led Northern State with a standout performance, contributing 18 points and securing 12 rebounds, both team highs. Marcus Burks also delivered an effective performance, scoring 14 points and leading the team with six field goals made. James Glenn was instrumental in playmaking, recording five assists and adding three steals to his defensive efforts. Ethan Russell made notable contributions in defense with two steals, while Tobi Obiora added eight points and four rebounds in his starting appearance.
Bemidji State holds an overall record of four wins and five losses, with a one-two standing in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. The Wolves have a season record of one win and seven losses, including zero wins and three losses in conference play.
The Bemidji State basketball team hosts Minnesota State University Moorhead Saturday afternoon with a 5:30 p.m. tipoff. They'll host once more on Dec. 19 when St. Cloud State University comes to Bemidji, then will close out the first half of the season on Dec. 21 in Bismarck, N.D. against University of Mary.
For more information on the Bemidji State Men's Basketball program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X (@BSUBeaversMBB), like them on Facebook (facebook.com/BSUBeavers) and like them on Instagram (@BSUBeaversMBB).
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's and women's hockey membership in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
