Mayville, N.D. - The Comets Men's Basketball team battled the Cougars of University of Minnesota-Morris on Tuesday at the Lewy Lee. Mayville State dominated on the boards and forced 18 Cougar turnovers in an 82-57 victory.

"I think we played great in increments. Each week, those increments are getting longer in length. I thought our defense looked really good during those spans," said head coach Brandon McGruder.

The Comets defense shined in the first six and a half minutes, allowing only one bucket as they raced out to a 15-3 advantage.

Mayville State steadily built up to a 19 point lead late in the first half, but the Cougars fought back with an 8-0 to climb within 11 points, but a John White Jr. triple sent the Comets into halftime with a 43-29 lead.

BJ Woods went four of five from deep to lead the Comets with 12 points in the first half.

Similar to the first half the Comets started strong once again, as they outscored Morris 12-4 to boost their lead to 55-33 at the 15 minute mark.

The Cougars never got closer than 15 points the rest of the way, and a 9-2 run at the end of the game gave the Comets the 82-57 victory.

Seniors Thomas Gieske and Jamison Kramer carried the Comets offense in the second half as they combined for 25 points on 11 of 17 shooting from the field.

The Comets out rebounded the Cougars 44-32 and collected 16 offensive rebounds which resulted in 18 second chance points.

McGruder added, "I would like to take more charges defensively. I think we've gotten away from sacrificing our good bodies for the greater good. I'd like us to continue our defensive focus and effort. When we're tuned in, we make it difficult for opposing teams to score."

Gieske led all scorers with 23 points, Woods hit five three-pointers to finish with 15 and Kramer finished with a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Juan Carlos Canahuate dished out six assists as well.

"I hope it's a great break. I told my guys to take in the next few days and enjoy their time with family and friends and not to think about basketball. I think it's important they go home and recharge with loved ones and close friends. It's extremely difficult being a student-athlete and I hope they get to recharge their batteries and enjoy the break," commented McGruder about Thanksgiving Break.

The win boosts the Comets record to 6-2. Mayville State will travel to Morris next Tuesday to face the Cougars on their home court, tip off is at 7:00pm.