BISMARCK, N.D. – Despite one of its best shooting nights of the season, the University of Mary couldn't keep up with the torrid pace set by visiting Southwest Minnesota State University in an 84-72 win by the Mustangs.
 
U-Mary shot 50 per cent for the night, which is the Marauders second-best effort of the season. Normally enough to win a game, U-Mary was no match for the rate at which SMSU converted its shots. The Mustangs knocked down 64.6 percent of the team's field goal attempt, including a blistering 60.9 percent behind the arc. Overall SMSU made 31-of-48 of its shots with a 14-of-23 effort on 3-point attempts.
 
A tight game throughout the first half, a 3-pointer by Chris Mason capped a 9-0 run that provide the Marauders an early 24-20 lead. The Mustangs eventually regained the lead and entered intermission up 40-39.
 
The Mustangs took command in the second half on an 18-5 run keyed by Joey Bartlett. The sophomore forward drained three of his game-high six treys as SMSU moved in front 63-50 with just under 12 minutes left in the game. U-Mary twice pulled within seven but could never gain further ground.
 
Marquealis Edwards was in top form for the Marauders, scoring a team-high 16 points while also leading the squad with six assists and three steals. The junior also had five rebounds.
 
Three other Marauders cracked double digits in scoring. Bryan Jefferson produced 13 points and six rebounds off the bench. Jaycob Velasco also added 11 in a reserve role. Damonta Henry scored 12 points and was 2-of-3 behind the arc.
 
While the Marauders shot well overall, the squad made just 5-of-17 three-point attempts.
 
Bartlett connected on 6-of-8 3-point attempts and scored 24 points. Cole Martin had 14 points and four assists and MJ Delmore added 12.
 
U-Mary concludes the weekend when the Marauders host the University of Sioux Falls on Saturday, Dec. 13. Game time is 6 p.m. at the McDowell Activity Center.
 
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