Minnesota State struggled to score and control the boards in a 66-54 loss to Northern Michigan on Sunday in Wisconsin Dells. Haylee Stokes led the Mavericks with 20 points, but Northern Michigan’s rebounding edge and second-chance scoring helped seal the win.

By the Numbers
  • Minnesota State: 1-2; Northern Michigan: 2-1.
  • Minnesota State shot 16-for-55 from the field and was outrebounded 45-35.
  • Northern Michigan held a 15-8 advantage in second-chance points.
  • Stokes scored 20 points; Rhyan Holmgren added 10 and made all 8 of her free throws.
Yes, But

The Mavericks found bright spots: they forced nine turnovers in the third quarter and held advantages in points in the paint and bench scoring. But their offense went stagnant, and they couldn’t overcome Northern Michigan’s physicality or rebounding.

What’s Next

Minnesota State visits UW-Parkside next Monday at 11:30 a.m. CT in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Bottom Line

The Mavericks showed effort and defensive pressure, but better shot-making and rebounding will be essential to turning close stretches into wins.