Spartan Men Take Control in 2nd Half, Post 81-66 Win Over Itasca

The M State Men's basketball team held a 32-29 halftime lead and then pulled away in the second half for an 81-66 win over Minnesota North College – Itasca on Saturday afternoon in Fergus Falls.  The Spartans shot 36.8% (25-68) as they recorded their third straight win and improved their season record to 7-3.  M State took excellent care of the ball, committing only 11 turnovers on the day and won the battle of the boards, 50-44.

Leng Akol was a perfect 10-for-10 on the free throw line and hit 4-of-7 3's on the way to a game high 28 points.  He was joined in double digits by James Hamilton with 18, Devon Berg with 13, and Braylon Baldwin with 11.  Drew Overby contributed 9 points off the bench.  Hamilton completed a double-double by securing 11 rebounds and Baldwin dished out 6 assists.

Lamarcus Preston came off the bench to lead the Vikings with 15 points and 7 rebounds.  Victor Estevao scored 12 points and grabbed 7 boards, and Gohan Sawyer wound up with 10 points.

M State will host Minnesota North College – Rainy River on Friday night at 7:30pm.