BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University (6-8, 3-6 NSIC) fell to Southwest Minnesota State (9-5, 7-2 NSIC) with a final score of 85-55 on Friday night at BSU Gymnasium. The Mustangs capitalized on 13 three-pointers and forced 13 turnovers to secure the victory.
The game began with Southwest Minnesota State establishing control early, as Aeron Stevens hit a three-pointer just 12 seconds into play. The Beavers struggled to convert on their shooting opportunities, making only 1-of-12 from beyond the arc during the first half. Despite a strong defensive effort with three blocks and three steals, Bemidji St. was unable to gain momentum offensively.
Henry Shannon III provided a spark with a layup at 16:01, breaking the team's early scoring drought and adding another layup with 0:41 remaining to close the half. However, the Mustangs maintained a commanding lead, boosted by seven three-pointers and nine assists, closing the half ahead 47-16.
Bemidji St. opened the second half with a notable defensive play as Shannon blocked a layup attempt at 17:59, followed by a defensive rebound. Shortly afterward,
Eddie Jallow Hedqvist connected on a three-pointer to narrow the gap to 49-19. Shannon continued to be a key contributor, scoring multiple times in the paint and capitalizing on free throw opportunities, bringing the score to 56-28 midway through the half.
The Beavers showed resilience with Shannon leading the charge, both offensively and defensively. His efforts included a series of layups and rebounds, keeping the team within striking distance.
John Pecarich added to the momentum with a successful three-pointer at 4:57, cutting the deficit to 76-48. Despite strong efforts from Bemidji St., Southwest Minnesota State maintained their lead, closing the game with an 85-55 advantage.
Shannon scored 28 points and recorded 20 rebounds, leading the team in both categories.
Nathan Fenske added six points and grabbed two rebounds while also contributing an assist.
Dominic Fairbanks posted three points and registered two steals, providing defensive support.
Austin Josephson finished with five points, three blocks, and two assists in a strong all-around performance.
Bemidji St. holds an overall record of 6-8 and stands at 3-6 in NSIC competition. The Mustangs are 9-5 overall and 7-2 in NSIC play. In their next game, Bemidji St. will host the University of Sioux Falls on Saturday, Jan. 10 at 3:30 p.m. at BSU Gymnasium 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).
