SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Bemidji State University Men's Basketball (6-14, 3-12 NSIC) narrowly fell to Augustana University (13-7, 11-4 NSIC) with a final score of 69-67 on Friday night at the Elmen Center. The Beavers excelled in the paint, scoring 38 points, but could not overcome Augustana's nine three-pointers.
 
Bemidji State started the first half with a strong inside presence, scoring frequently in the paint. Henry Shannon III initiated the scoring with a jumper assisted by John Pecarich, followed by a successful tip-in. Despite this, Augustana responded with perimeter shooting, keeping the score close.
 
As the half progressed, Austin Josephson contributed with key plays, scoring a layup and converting a three-point play, helping Bemidji State recover from a slight deficit. The team's defensive efforts were highlighted by three blocks, maintaining pressure on the Vikings. In the closing moments, the Beavers managed to even the score with a layup by Shannon, assisted by Pecarich, and a final free throw from Shannon, concluding the half at 31-31.
 
Bemidji State opened the second half by matching the scoring tempo with Augustana, with Shannon converting a fast break dunk to tie the game at 33. Nathan Fenske then put the Beavers ahead briefly with a 3-pointer. Despite a series of offensive rebounds, the team faced challenges maintaining the lead as the game remained tightly contested.
 
Midway through the half, Josephson's free throws helped Bemidji State regain a slim lead at 59-55. With consistent scoring from Pecarich and defensive efforts highlighted by Shannon's rebounds and a block, Bemidji State continued to keep pace, holding a slight edge over their opponents.
 
In the closing minutes, the teams exchanged points with Josephson's free throws tying the game at 67-67. However, a turnover in the final seconds allowed Augustana to capitalize and secure the lead. Despite a last attempt by Shannon, Bemidji State could not close the deficit, and the half ended with a narrow 69-67 advantage for Augustana.
 
Shannon scored 19 points and recorded a team-high 11 rebounds, adding three blocks to his performance. Josephson led the scoring effort with 21 points, converting all 11 of his free throw attempts and collecting 11 rebounds. Pecarich added 11 points and contributed a game-high six assists, while Fenske posted seven points and grabbed six rebounds.
 
The Beavers hold a record of 6-14 overall and 3-12 in NSIC play. Augustana stands at 13-7 overall and 11-4 in NSIC competition. In their next game, Bemidji State will travel to face Wayne State College on Saturday, Jan. 31. The game is set to tip off at 5:30 p.m. in Wayne, Nebraska.
 
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).