PITTSBURG, Kan. — Southern Arkansas University edged out Bemidji State University Men's Basketball (1-1) 85-83 in a closely contested matchup at John Lance Arena. Despite a strong first-half performance, Bemidji State could not hold off Southern Arkansas, who capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 25 points from offensive rebounds.
 
The first half began with Bemidji State responding quickly to an early 3-pointer from Southern Arkansas. Eddie Jallow Hedqvist connected on three 3-pointers to help keep the home team competitive. Tate Olson contributed significantly with a defensive rebound and a 3-pointer, bringing the score to a tie multiple times. Bemidji State then gained momentum with Dominic Fairbanks adding two consecutive 3-pointers in the final minutes, pushing the team ahead. However, Southern Arkansas tied the score with a late 3-pointer by Troy'reon Ramos. The half concluded with a score of 49-49, setting up a closely contested game.
 
Bemidji State opened the second half with a strong start, highlighted by Jallow Hedqvist's early three-pointer and a defensive block by Olson. Olson continued to impact the game with a layup, keeping Bemidji State ahead. Despite Southern Arkansas' efforts to close the gap, Bemidji State maintained resilience, with Nathan Fenske and Olson providing key baskets.
 
As the half progressed, Bemidji State encountered challenges as Southern Arkansas briefly pulled ahead. However, Olson's three-pointer reduced the deficit, and his subsequent layup with a free throw cut Southern Arkansas' lead to two points. The half concluded with Bemidji State trailing by a narrow margin, 85–83.
 
Olson scored 24 points, recorded 16 rebounds, and tallied seven assists, leading the team in multiple categories. Jallow Hedqvist contributed 17 points, making five of seven from beyond the arc and recording four blocks. John Pecarich added 16 points and collected two steals. Henry Shannon III posted three blocks and scored eight points.
 
Bemidji St. is now 1-1 overall. Southern Ark. also holds a 1-1 overall record. In their next matchup, Bemidji State will host Oak Hills Christian College on Friday, Nov. 21, at 5:30 p.m. at their home court in Bemidji, Minnesota.
 
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 Central Collegiate Hockey Association and Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).