BEMIDJI, Minn. – Bemidji State University Men's Basketball fell to No. 15 Southwest Minnesota State University, 83-66, on Friday at home.
 
In the first half, Bemidji State had a strong start, with Tate Olson contributing significantly by scoring a layup and a 3-pointer, helping the team to an early 10-6 lead. John Sutherland and Isaac Severts also added key points, with Sutherland scoring a layup with 6:14 left in the half to keep the game close at 17-15. Despite Bemidji State's efforts, including a late layup by Malang Athian, SMSU managed to pull ahead by the end of the half, leading 40-34, with Bemidji State's offense being highlighted by multiple assists from Olson.
 
In the second half, BSU saw significant contributions from John Sutherland, who added points with a layup at 13:45 and a dunk at 1:08, as well as assisting on a 3-pointer by John Pecarich at 6:13. Tate Olson was also active, hitting a 3-pointer at 19:43 and securing multiple defensive rebounds. Despite these efforts, Southwest Minn. St. maintained a scoring edge, bolstered by Mason Lund's performance, including a 3-pointer at 1:24, helping his team to outscore the Beavers 43-32 in the half.
 
John Sutherland led the team with 17 points, hitting 7 of 11 field goal attempts, and contributed a team-high 8 rebounds, including 3 offensive boards. He also recorded 3 steals. Tate Olson also had a strong performance, scoring 15 points by making 6 out of 11 field goals and adding 7 rebounds. John Pecarich was another key player, scoring 16 points with 4 3-pointers and leading the team with 4 steals. Malang Athian added 8 points and 2 assists. 
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of six wins and 13 losses, with a conference record of three wins and ten losses in the NSIC. The Mustangs have an overall record of 16 wins and three losses, with a conference record of 11 wins and two losses in the NSIC.
 
Following this loss, the Beavers will face the University of Sioux Falls tomorrow afternoon in Bemidji. The game is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. and is available on the Beaver Radio Network and NSIC Network.
 
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).