ABERDEEN, S.D. — Bemidji State University Men's Basketball (5-5, 2-3 NSIC) secured a narrow victory over Northern State University (2-8, 2-3 NSIC) with a final score of 66-63 on Saturday at Wachs Arena. The Beavers outscored the Wolves 38-33 in the second half, overcoming a two-point halftime deficit.
 
Bemidji State opened the first half with an effective start, with Austin Josephson scoring a layup at 19:48, assisted by Dominic Fairbanks, and Eddie Jallow Hedqvist hitting a 3-pointer shortly after to establish an early lead. Despite maintaining a strong offensive presence in the paint, BSU faced a back-and-forth battle, as the teams tied the score three times throughout the half.  
 
Henry Shannon III played a crucial role with multiple defensive rebounds and key field goals, contributing significantly to the team's efforts to keep the game close. As the half progressed, Bemidji State succeeded in cutting a late deficit with a layup and free throw by John Pecarich, tying the game at 28-28 with 15 seconds remaining. However, NSU managed to edge ahead with two free throws in the final seconds, closing the half with a narrow 30-28 advantage.
 
The second half began with BSU taking an early lead, highlighted by Pecarich's jumper and Fairbanks' layup to make it 32-30. The Beavers maintained their advantage through efficient free-throw shooting from Shannon, who added two more points to extend the lead. A 3-pointer by Hedqvist at 16:31 further solidified Bemidji State's position, although the Wolves kept pace with strategic plays.
 
As the half progressed, BSU continued to find success inside, with key defensive rebounds by Josephson and Shannon. Despite turnovers, the Beavers regained momentum with timely baskets, including a crucial layup by Pecarich. In the closing minutes, a layup by Fairbanks and a jumper from Shannon at 00:36 secured the lead. Two fast-break free throws by Fairbanks with 8 seconds remaining sealed the game at 66-63 in favor of Bemidji State.
 
Shannon led the team with 21 points and 13 rebounds, including two blocks. Pecarich contributed 16 points, converting seven of eight free throws and recording two steals. Hedqvist scored 11 points, all from three-point range, and added three rebounds. Josephson finished with 10 points and six rebounds, along with one block.
 
The Beavers stand at 5-5 overall and 2-3 in NSIC play. The Wolves hold a 2-8 overall record and are also 2-3 in NSIC competition. In their next game, Bemidji State will host the University of Mary for Ugly Holiday Sweater Night on Thursday, Dec. 18. The matchup is set for 5:30 p.m. at BSU Gymnasium in Bemidji, Minnesota. Fans are encouraged to wear their best Ugly Holiday Sweater for the chance to win prizes in game. 
 
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).