BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University Men's Basketball (6-13, 3-11 NSIC) fell to Winona State University (6-13, 5-9 NSIC) 86-83 in a closely contested conference matchup on Saturday at BSU Gymnasium. The game had strong playoff implications with WSU ranked one spot above BSU, so the Beavers will now work to improve their standing in order to make the conference tournament in one month. 
 
Bemidji State opened the first half with efforts to establish rhythm but faced an early 7–0 deficit against Winona State. Henry Shannon III's defensive block at 16:38 was a notable moment that helped stabilize the game. A fast-break layup by Nathan Fenske at 13:09 trimmed the gap to 14–8, showing promise in their transition play.
 
Throughout the half, the Beavers tied the score at 19 with 8:30 remaining, led by Eddie Jallow Hedqvist's 3-pointer at 7:30. Hedqvist was on fire, making 8 field goals, which surpassed his season average of 3.44. However, the Warriors' scoring in the paint proved challenging, and despite John Pecarich's effort to keep the score close with a key 3-pointer at 3:45, the half ended with Bemidji State trailing 36–30.
 
Bemidji State began the second half with a strong defensive presence, highlighted by Pecarich's early steal at 19:19. The team capitalized on multiple scoring opportunities, with Pecarich contributing significantly with a successful 3-pointer at 16:49. Pecarich's performance was noteworthy as he recorded at least 26 total points in 2 consecutive games, averaging 36.5 per game this weekend. Despite facing pressure from Winona State, the Beavers managed to keep the score close, thanks to Shannon III's effective play, including a layup at 11:52 that narrowed the gap.
 
In the latter part of the half, Bemidji State continued to fight back as they exchanged leads with Winona State. A critical turnover by the Warriors at 10:26 allowed the Beavers to regain momentum, with Fenske quickly turning it into a scoring opportunity. As the clock wound down, Hedqvist's 3-pointer at 1:10 tied the game, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion. With only seven seconds left, Shannon III executed a crucial layup to tie the game once more at 73-73. The half ended with the score level, showcasing a tenacious effort by Bemidji State to maintain parity heading into the next phase.
 
The extra period opened with the Beavers maintaining a narrow lead, highlighted by Pecarich's layup at 4:40, extending the score to 75–73 in favor of the home team. As the game progressed, the Beavers managed to stay competitive with key plays, including a crucial 3-pointer by Dominic Fairbanks at 2:48, assisted by Isaac Severts, bringing the score to 80–77.
 
The period's momentum shifted several times, with Bemidji State responding to the Warriors' free throws with a 3-pointer by Hedqvist at 0:46, briefly reclaiming a one-point lead at 83–82. However, the Warriors capitalized on late free throws and a layup to edge ahead. The period concluded with the Beavers trailing by three, 86–83.
 
Pecarich led the Beavers with 26 points, including six 3-pointers, and added three assists. Hedqvist contributed 22 points, also sinking six 3-pointers, and recorded two assists. Shannon posted 14 points and collected 10 rebounds while blocking five shots. Fenske added five points and recorded two steals.
 
Bemidji State holds a 6-13 overall record and is 3-11 in NSIC play. Winona State currently stands at 6-13 overall, with a 5-9 record in the NSIC. In their next matchup, the Beavers will travel to face Augustana University on Friday, Jan. 30. The game will tip off at 7:30 p.m. 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).