BSU closes five-game homestand with SMSU and USF
Beavers to host Mustangs and Cougars before returning to the road for first time in a month

Bemidji State University Men’s Basketball is set to close its holiday-break homestand with a pair of games against Southwest Minnesota State University and University of Sioux Falls. Friday’s tipoff against SMSU is set for 5:30 p.m. and Saturday’s at 3:30 p.m. from the BSU Gymnasium.

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.

BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University (6-9, 3-7 NSIC) fell to the University of
Sioux Falls (8-8, 5-5 NSIC) in a closely contested matchup, 97-94, at the BSU
Gymnasium on Saturday. Despite scoring 48 points in the paint, the Beavers could not
overcome Sioux Falls’ 15 three-pointers.

Bemidji State started the first half with an effective offensive strategy, quickly
taking control of the game. Austin Josephson’s defensive efforts, including multiple
rebounds and steals, set the tone early. Dominic Fairbanks contributed with a layup
off a steal, while John Pecarich added a 3-pointer to extend the lead.

Henry Shannon III maintained momentum with successful free throws and a dunk,
pushing the lead further. The Beavers’ defense was pivotal, blocking several
attempts and forcing turnovers. The half concluded with Bemidji State leading Sioux
Falls 52–41, showcasing a balanced attack and solid defense.

Bemidji State entered the second half with a lead and quickly extended it with
Shannon’s jumper just seconds into play. The team maintained momentum through
effective ball movement, highlighted by Fairbanks’ three-pointer at 16:36, pushing
the score to 64-47. The Beavers’ defense also made crucial stops, including a block
by Josephson at 8:17.

As time wound down, Sioux Falls closed the gap with a series of three-pointers,
bringing the score to 94-94 with less than a minute remaining. Despite a late
three-pointer from Pecarich that momentarily regained the lead, the Beavers were
unable to maintain their advantage. Sioux Falls capitalized on free throws in the
final seconds to pull ahead, ending the half at 97-94 in favor of Sioux Falls.

Pecarich scored 29 points, including five 3-pointers, and added four assists.
Shannon tallied 25 points, collected 16 rebounds, and recorded three blocks.
Josephson contributed 18 points, made three blocks, and collected seven rebounds.
Fairbanks added 11 points and recorded six assists.

Bemidji State stands at 6-9 overall and 3-7 in NSIC play. Sioux Falls is 8-8 overall
and 5-5 in NSIC competition. In their next game, the Beavers will face St. Cloud
State University on Friday, Jan. 16, at 5:30 p.m. The matchup will take place in
Sioux Falls, South Dakota.