Spartans Knock Off Undefeated, Top-Ranked Riverland, 80-56

The M State Men's Basketball team led 31-28 at the half Wednesday night in Austin, but a 49-28 second half carried the Spartans past the top-ranked Riverland Blue Devils, 80-56.  The win moves M State into a tie for first place with Riverland in the MCAC Southern Division with 7-1 division records.  The win puts the Spartans at 21-2 overall.  The loss is the first of the season for the Blue Devils, now 22-1.

M State shot 52.5% from the field and made 6-of-16 (37.5%) 3-pointers in the game.  They also shot 76.9% (10-13) from the free throw line.  Five players reached double figures, led by Foday Sheriff with a double-double (23 points, 13 rebounds, 7 assists).  Yonis Mohamud scored 19 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.  Javin Tindall (14 points, 5 rebounds), Mason Muir (11 points, 4 rebounds) and Tyson McArthur (11 points, 6 rebounds) were also in double digits.  M State only had 9 turnovers and recorded 15 assists on 32 made baskets.

Buai Duop (16 points, 7 rebounds) and Damar Jenkins (12 points, 5 rebounds) combined for 28 points and 12 rebounds off the bench for Riverland.  They were joined in double figures by Christian Campbell with 11.  Riverland shot just 32.8% (21-64) overall and 13.8% (4-29) from 3-point range.  They made 10-of-13 (76.9%) shots from the foul line.

M State will host Anoka-Ramsey at 3:00pm Saturday.

The lady Spartans earned a forfeit victory over the Riverland women.  Riverland is not fielding a women's team this season.  The M State women will be hosting Anoka-Ramsey at 1:00pm Saturday and are looking forward to the possible return of two starters from injuries, Kharmon Wells (ankle) and Felicity LeBlanc (concussion).