BEMIDJI, Minn. – Bemidji State University Men's Basketball defeated the University of Minnesota Crookston, 83-68, on Tuesday in Bemidji.
 
In the first half, Bemidji State established a strong offensive presence, highlighted by a series of 3-pointers from Tate Olson and Jalen Patterson, contributing to a 53-31 lead over Minnesota Crookston. Malang Athian and John Sutherland were effective in the paint, with Athian scoring a dunk and Sutherland adding multiple jumpers, while John Pecarich made notable contributions with both a steal and an assist. Bemidji State's defensive efforts were marked by Sutherland's block and Pecarich's steal, limiting the visitors' scoring opportunities.
 
In the second half, BSU maintained a strong performance, highlighted by Tate Olson's defensive rebound at 17:23, followed by a successful jumper. Tate Olson marked his ninth double-double of the season, showcasing his consistency on both ends of the court. John Sutherland made significant contributions with a layup at 14:35 and later provided an assist to John Pecarich for a 3-pointer at 13:22. Despite UMC's attempts to narrow the gap, BSU continued to extend its lead with consistent scoring, including a dunk by Tate Olson at 1:30, assisted by Jalen Patterson, leading to a final half score of 30-37.
 
John Sutherland led the Beavers with 20 points, shooting 9-for-17 from the field, and added 14 rebounds, marking his first double-double of the season and the 20th of his career. He also contributed six assists and two steals in the game. Tate Olson made a significant impact by scoring 19 points, hitting 7-of-8 shots, and grabbing 10 rebounds. John Pecarich showcased his defensive skills with three steals while scoring 12 points on 5-of-8 shooting and providing four assists. Jalen Patterson was efficient from beyond the arc, making 3-of-7 3-point attempts and finishing with 12 points.
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of nine wins and 14 losses, with a conference record of six wins and 11 losses in the NSIC. Minnesota Crookston has an overall record of five wins and 18 losses, and a conference record of four wins and 13 losses in the NSIC.
 
Up next, Bemidji State will face Northern State University on February 8, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. in Aberdeen, S.D. The game will be 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).