BEMIDJI, Minn. – Bemidji State University, 10-14), defeated Northern State University, 2-22, with a final score of 84-70 on Saturday in Aberdeen. 
 
In the first half, Bemidji State established an early lead with effective shooting, highlighted by Malang Athian's 3-pointer at 18:30, assisted by John Sutherland. The team demonstrated strong defensive rebounding, with Tate Olson and Athian each grabbing key boards. Olson's effort was part of his impressive double-double performance with 10 rebounds and 12 points. The Beavers maintained momentum with a scoring streak, including a three-point play by Jalen Patterson at 2:15, leading to a 44-39 advantage by the end of the half.
 
In the second half, the visiting team displayed a strong offensive performance with a 40-point effort. John Pecarich contributed significantly, highlighted by a layup at the 19-minute mark and a 3-pointer shortly after. Olson added to the momentum with a successful 3-pointer, while Athian made a key layup, contributing to his career-high 25 points. Sutherland was pivotal in securing defensive rebounds and contributing offensively, including a dunk with 3:30 remaining. He tied his career high of nine assists, which he had set at St. Cloud just over a week ago. The team's free-throw shooting was also a factor, with both Olson and Athian making crucial shots from the line, helping to maintain their lead.
 
Athian led the Beavers with 25 points, shooting 8-for-10 from the field and 6-for-7 from beyond the arc. Sutherland contributed significantly with 17 points and a team-high 9 assists, also securing 8 rebounds. Olson was a key player on the boards, leading the team with 10 rebounds, including 9 defensive rebounds, while also scoring 12 points. Pecarich added 15 points and made 5 out of 6 free throws, maintaining his presence at the line.
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of ten wins and 14 losses, with a conference record of seven wins and 11 losses in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. The Wolves have an overall record of two wins and 22 losses, with one win and 17 losses in conference play.
 
Up next, Bemidji State basketball faces Augustana University on February 14 at 5:30 p.m. The game will take place in Sioux Falls, S.D. 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).