JAMESTOWN, N.D. – Bismarck State men's basketball posted their highest point total of the season, but were unable to keep pace offensively down the stretch in a 100-88 loss to Valley City State (N.D.) on Tuesday evening in Jamestown.
The Mystics came out aggressive, trading baskets with the Vikings throughout the opening minutes. Despite solid shooting in the first half, BSC found itself trailing 48-38 at the break as Valley City State connected on six three-pointers and controlled the glass.
Bismarck State responded coming out of halftime, scoring 50 second-half points and shooting over 55 percent from the field in the final 20 minutes. The Mystics trimmed the deficit to single digits multiple times, but Valley City State answered with timely perimeter shooting to keep separation.
The Vikings knocked down eight three-pointers in the second half and went 16-of-20 from the free-throw line, maintaining control late as BSC was forced to foul in the closing minutes.
Carter Zeller led the Mystics with 21 points and 12 rebounds, recording a double-double while shooting 7-of-11 from the field. Jah Gulley added 19 points and five assists, while Alex Proctor finished with 12 points, six rebounds and six assists. Kamayua Black Jr. chipped in 10 points off the bench.
Bismarck State shot 50.8 percent from the field and were only outscored by two in the second half, but the Vikings held a 45–35 rebounding advantage and finished with 14 three-pointers.
The Mystics fall to 1-18 overall and 1-12 in conference play, while Valley City State improves to 7-11 and 3-10 in conference play, creating a three-way tie for the eighth spot in the standings with Mayville State and Dickinson State.
Bismarck State returns to conference action later this week as they welcome the Dickinson State Blue Hawks (5-14, 3-10) to the Armory. The Blue Hawks most recently feel on the road to the Vikings, 96-92.
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.
Check out the men's schedule for information on how to follow and watch the team during their upcoming games.
Be sure to visit BSCMystics.com and download the MysticNation app to continue to stay up to date with everything going on in Mystic Athletics.
FOLLOW THE MYSTICS
Facebook: @BSCMystics
Instagram: @gomystics
X: @BSCMystics
YouTube: @GoMystics
#GoMystics
