The Bemidji State basketball team experienced a narrow defeat against Southern Arkansas University, losing 85-83 in a hard-fought game on March 15, 2024. With just two seconds left on the clock, the team’s hopes rested on the shoulders of John Pecarich, but he was unable to secure the win, missing a critical shot that allowed the Muleriders to clinch victory.
The game unfolded as a tightly contested battle, with neither team establishing a significant lead. By halftime, the score stood at a balanced 49-49. Throughout the match, the two teams exchanged leads a total of 12 times, illustrating the competitiveness on display.
Bemidji State’s standout performer was Tate Olson, who delivered an impressive double-double with 24 points and 16 rebounds. Olson also contributed significantly in playmaking, leading his team with seven assists. His efforts were complemented by Eddie Jallow Hedvqist, who excelled from beyond the three-point line, hitting five of his seven attempts and finishing the game with 17 points.
Southern Arkansas countered with a balanced offensive effort. Key players included Key with 19 points, followed by Moore Jr. and Wilson III, each contributing 15 points. The Muleriders capitalized on their shooting from the field, completing 29 of 73 field goal attempts and converting 10 of 24 from three-point range.
The final statistics reflect the close nature of the game. Bemidji State finished with 28 of 58 from the field, including 14 of 28 from beyond the arc. Free throw performance also played a role, with the Beavers converting 13 of 20 attempts compared to Southern Arkansas’s 17 of 22.
This defeat marks Bemidji State’s first loss of the season, highlighting both their potential and areas for improvement as they move forward. The team will look to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming games, as they aim to build on their earlier successes this season.
