MANKATO, Minn. — Bemidji State University (6-11, 3-9 NSIC) fell to Minnesota State University (11-9, 5-7 NSIC), 98-83, at Bresnan Arena on Saturday. The Beavers managed 12 steals in the contest, but the Mavericks' 44 points in the paint proved decisive.
 
Bemidji State opened the contest with a layup from Henry Shannon III, assisted by Eddie Jallow Hedqvist, setting an early tone. Despite an early lead, they faced a strong offensive push from the Mavericks, who capitalized on scoring opportunities in the paint and from beyond the arc.
 
The Beavers responded with key contributions from Dominic Fairbanks, who connected on a pair of 3-pointers, and a fast-break dunk by Brock Heffner. However, turnovers and fouls allowed the Mavericks to extend their advantage.
 
As the half progressed, the Beavers worked to close the gap with consistent efforts from Shannon and Isaac Severts, who added a late 3-pointer. Despite their efforts, the Beavers trailed 52-31 at the end of the first half.
 
Bemidji State opened the second half with a defensive stop, as Shannon recorded a steal in the opening seconds. Despite an early scoring push from the Mavericks, the Beavers responded with a series of successful shots, including a 3-pointer from Heffner at 16:23. The team's efforts were bolstered by strong defensive plays, including nine total steals in the half.
 
The Beavers continued to press, closing gaps through strategic scoring and maintaining pressure on their opponents. Fairbanks contributed significantly, hitting multiple 3-pointers, including one at 3:16, which helped narrow the deficit. Nathan Fenske's fast-break layup with an added free throw at 1:48 further demonstrated the team's resilience.
 
The half concluded with the Beavers outscoring the Mavericks 52–46 in the second half, closing the overall game at 98–83 in favor of the Mavericks.
 
Fairbanks led the way with 21 points, connecting on seven 3-pointers and dishing out eight assists. Fenske contributed 12 points, made five field goals, and recorded three steals. Shannon posted 14 points, secured five rebounds, and blocked two shots. John Pecarich added eight points and collected two steals.
 
The Beavers are now 6-11 overall and 3-9 in NSIC competition after the loss. The Mavericks hold a record of 11-9 overall and 5-7 in NSIC play. In their next game, the Beavers will host Concordia University, St. Paul on Friday, Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m. 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).