BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University (6-9, 3-7 NSIC) fell to the University of Sioux Falls (8-8, 5-5 NSIC) in a closely contested matchup, 97-94, at the BSU Gymnasium on Saturday. Despite scoring 48 points in the paint, the Beavers could not overcome Sioux Falls' 15 three-pointers.
Bemidji State started the first half with an effective offensive strategy, quickly taking control of the game.
Austin Josephson's defensive efforts, including multiple rebounds and steals, set the tone early.
Dominic Fairbanks contributed with a layup off a steal, while
John Pecarich added a 3-pointer to extend the lead.
Henry Shannon III maintained momentum with successful free throws and a dunk, pushing the lead further. The Beavers' defense was pivotal, blocking several attempts and forcing turnovers. The half concluded with Bemidji State leading Sioux Falls 52–41, showcasing a balanced attack and solid defense.
Bemidji State entered the second half with a lead and quickly extended it with Shannon's jumper just seconds into play. The team maintained momentum through effective ball movement, highlighted by Fairbanks' three-pointer at 16:36, pushing the score to 64-47. The Beavers' defense also made crucial stops, including a block by Josephson at 8:17.
As time wound down, Sioux Falls closed the gap with a series of three-pointers, bringing the score to 94-94 with less than a minute remaining. Despite a late three-pointer from Pecarich that momentarily regained the lead, the Beavers were unable to maintain their advantage. Sioux Falls capitalized on free throws in the final seconds to pull ahead, ending the half at 97-94 in favor of Sioux Falls.
Pecarich scored 29 points, including five 3-pointers, and added four assists. Shannon tallied 25 points, collected 16 rebounds, and recorded three blocks. Josephson contributed 18 points, made three blocks, and collected seven rebounds. Fairbanks added 11 points and recorded six assists.
Bemidji State stands at 6-9 overall and 3-7 in NSIC play. Sioux Falls is 8-8 overall and 5-5 in NSIC competition. In their next game, the Beavers will face St. Cloud State University on Friday, Jan. 16, at 5:30 p.m. The matchup will take place in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
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).
