Midland let a late lead slip away, falling 80-79 to Dickinson State after a turnover gave the Blue Hawks the ball for the go-ahead basket with 10 seconds left. The Warriors had rallied from an eight-point halftime deficit and led by seven with under two minutes to play, but missed free throws and the late turnover proved costly. Jeff Rozelle III led Midland with 20 points and 13 rebounds.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Dickinson State 80, Midland 79.
  • Midland shot 40.7% from the field (24-of-59); Dickinson State shot 53.7% (29-of-54).
  • Midland made 23-of-35 free throws (65.7%); Dickinson State made 14-of-17 (82.4%).
  • Rozelle III recorded 20 points and 13 rebounds; Trey McCain scored 19.
  • Midland is 2-1.
Yes, But

Midland’s second-half push and stronger play late offered positives, and coach Tyler Erwin said the team had only five turnovers in the half. But the Warriors’ missed free throws kept Dickinson State within reach, while the decisive turnover gave the Blue Hawks their final opportunity.

What’s Next

After a break, Midland travels to Olathe, Kansas, for the MNU Classic. The Warriors face MidAmerica Nazarene on Nov. 6 at 7:30 p.m.

Bottom Line

Midland showed it can rally, but closing out tight games will depend on converting at the line and protecting the ball when the outcome is on the line.