BEMIDJI, Minn. – Bemidji State University Men's Basketball fell to St. Cloud State University, 88-75, on Thursday at BSU Gymnasium in Bemidji, MN.
 
Bemidji State started strong in the first half with Daxton Dayley hitting a three-pointer at the 20:00 mark, assisted by Jalen Patterson. Patterson continued to contribute with an additional three-pointer and a free throw, helping the team to an early 7-0 lead. Despite the initial momentum, BSU faced challenges with turnovers and fouls, including Tate Olson committing a foul and turnover in quick succession at 18:30. Christian Koonce kept the scoring tight with a three-pointer at 10:42, narrowing the Huskies' lead. However, SCSU capitalized on Bemidji State's turnovers and ended the half ahead, 33-27.
 
In the second half, Bemidji State opened with a free throw from Jalen Patterson at 20:00 to narrow the gap, but the Huskies quickly responded with a three-pointer. Malang Athian hit a three-pointer with Tate Olson providing the assist to keep Bemidji State competitive early in the half. Christian Koonce was active on the free-throw line, adding several points for Bemidji State, while also securing offensive rebounds. Despite some key plays, including a dunk by Austin Josephson and a layup by Daxton Dayley, Bemidji State faced a tough challenge from the Huskies' persistent scoring, particularly from beyond the arc. John Sutherland, playing his first game back after injury, contributed 11 points, five rebounds, and four assists, along with a single steal. Jalen Patterson added crucial points down the stretch, marking his second-highest career points at 17, yet Bemidji State was unable to close the deficit, finishing the period with a score of 48 to the Huskies' 55.
 
Christian Koonce led Bemidji St. with 16 points, highlighted by making 8 of 9 free throws. Jalen Patterson contributed a team-high 17 points, connecting on 6 of 9 baskets. Jareon Mayo stood out defensively with 2 steals and added 4 assists. John Sutherland made a strong impact with 11 points and 5 rebounds, while Daxton Dayley provided solid rebounding with a team-leading 6 boards.
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of four wins and seven losses, with a conference record of one win and four losses in the NSIC. St. Cloud State has an overall record of eight wins and six losses, and a conference standing of four wins and two losses in the NSIC.
 
Bemidji State is set to face the University of Mary on Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in Bismarck, N.D. as they look to bounce back from their recent loss.
 
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).