St. PAUL, Minn. -
Connor Dillon scored 27 points to lead the Winona State University men's basketball team to a 66-63 victory over Concordia University St. Paul on Saturday, Dec. 3.
Dillon delivered in impressive fashion against the host Golden Bears, going 10-for-19 from the floor in a season-high effort, while also hauling in five rebounds and collecting a pair of steals.
Playing an NSIC opponent for the first time on the road this season, Winona State led at the break 42-33, but CSP chipped away at the Warrior advantage in the second half to tie the game at 56-56 with 5:09 remaining in the contest.
However, moments later
Sam Hytinen was fouled on a layup with just over 4:30 to go; Hytinen hit the subsequent free throw to complete the three-point-play, restoring the Warrior lead at 59-56 and WSU was able to outlast the Golden Bears the rest of the way.
In addition to
Connor Drew's big day,
Owen King added 10 points, three assists and a pair of steals to the Warrior effort.
Luke Martens had a team-high eight rebounds in the game, while
Drew Adams came off the bench in over 20 minutes of action, scoring six points and hauling in five rebounds.
At a team, Winona State was 23-of-52 from the floor and connected on 6-of-18 three point attempts. WSU was 14-of-19 from the foul line, including three critical
Connor Dillon free throws in the final minute of play to seal the win.
CSP was led by Marcus Skeete and Jacob Everson, both of whom had 21 points. Winona State held a decisive edge on the boards, with the Warriors out rebounding the Golden Bears, 33-26.
With the win, Winona State moves to 6-2 overall and 1-2 in NSIC play. The Warriors will welcome Southwest Minnesota State on Friday, Dec. 9. WSU and SMSU are set to start at 7:30 p.m. in McCown Gymnasium, home of WNB Financial Court.
