BISMARCK, N.D. — Bemidji State University (7-16, 4-14 NSIC) edged the University of Mary (5-19, 3-15 NSIC) 74-73 on Saturday in Bismarck, N.D. The Beavers overcame an 11-point halftime deficit, securing the win with a strong second-half performance.
 
The first half opened with Bemidji State establishing an early presence in the paint, scoring 20 points inside, and gaining momentum with assists from Henry Shannon III and John Pecarich. The Beavers managed to take the lead multiple times, utilizing a strong inside game and defensive rebounds. Despite their efforts, Mary capitalized on turnovers, converting 16 points off turnovers and finding success from beyond the arc with seven 3-pointers. The half concluded with Bemidji State trailing 45-34, as they maintained competitive play throughout.
 
Bemidji State opened the second half by erasing a deficit, fueled by key defensive plays from Austin Josephson, including two steals and a block. Shannon was pivotal in the comeback, contributing a mix of field goals and free throws to help the Beavers close in on the lead. In the latter stages, Dominic Fairbanks' three-pointers and Pecarich's assists pushed Bemidji State ahead. The visiting team maintained their edge despite Mary's efforts, ending the half with a 40–28 advantage, setting the stage for the final stretch.
 
Pecarich scored 21 points and contributed four assists, showcasing his accuracy by converting all five of his free-throw attempts. Shannon led the team with 23 points and 13 rebounds, dominating inside with 10 successful field goals. Fairbanks added 13 points and recorded six rebounds, making three shots from beyond the arc. Josephson provided a strong defensive presence, collecting 10 rebounds and blocking four shots while also adding 10 points.
 
Bemidji State holds a 7-16 overall record and is 4-14 in NSIC competition. The Marauders stand at 5-19 overall with a 3-15 mark in NSIC play. Looking ahead, Bemidji State will host Northern State University on Thursday, Feb. 12. The game will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Sanford Center 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).