November 4, 2025

MADISON, S.D. – Dakota State men's basketball used a dominant rebounding effort and scored 54 points in the paint Tuesday evening, cruising to a 79-62 non-conference victory over Trinity Bible (N.D.) inside the DSU Fieldhouse. The Trojans improved to 3-0 on the season, while the Lions dropped to 1-0.

Dakota State controlled the game from the opening minutes, jumping out to a double-digit lead midway through the first half and never trailing. The Trojans built a 37-18 advantage at halftime behind strong inside scoring and second-chance opportunities, grabbing 18 offensive rebounds in the contest.

Trinity Bible's offense found more rhythm after the break, scoring 44 points in the second half and knocking down five 3-pointers, trimming DSU's lead in single digits. However, the Trojans led by as many as 22 late in the game to secure the victory.

Four Trojans scored in double figures, highlighted by Nathan Ojukwu, who posted a double-double with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists, nearly recording a triple-double. Desman Botts added 13 points and 5 rebounds off the bench. Lukas Morgan added 12 points on 6-of-10 shooting. Brayden Pankonen tallied with 10 points, six steals, five rebounds, and three assists.

Taine Mitchell and Aiden Jensen each pulled down six rebounds for Dakota State.  Tyler Beckwith and Ryan Beckwith each scored eight points. 

The Trojans dominated the glass, holding a 52-28 rebounding advantage, including 18 offensive boards, which fueled 20 second-chance points. Dakota State also scored 54 points in the paint and 25 bench points.

Despite committing 20 turnovers themselves, the Trojans converted 23 points off Trinity Bible's 20 turnovers. Dakota State shot 45.8 percent from the field (33-of-72 field goals), while holding the Lions to 37.5 percent overall (21-of-56 field goals) and just 22.6 percent from beyond the arc (7-of-31 3-point arc).

Trinity Bible was led by Jonathan Ogugua, who finished with 11 points, 10 assists, nine rebounds, and five steals, just shy of a triple double. Jordan Reeves and Mason Bates each added 11 and 12 points, respectively.

Dakota State steps out of their regular season action Thursday evening, playing an exhibition game at NCAA Division I South Dakota State.  Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. at First Bank & Trust Arena in Brookings, S.D.