Mayville, N.D. - A gritty second-half surge wasn't enough to lift Mayville State on Saturday night, as the Comets came up short in an 83–71 loss to Montana Western at the Lewy Lee Fieldhouse. Despite trailing by double digits in the first half, Mayville State battled back to within striking distance before the visiting Bulldogs pulled away in the closing minutes.

Montana Western set the tone early, building a 41–29 halftime lead. The Bulldogs shot over 50 percent from the floor in the first half and capitalized on second-chance opportunities to control possession.

The Comets pulled within 66–60 midway through the second half, but the Bulldogs answered immediately with a 9–2 run.

Montana Western's depth played a major role down the stretch, with four players scoring in double figures and the Bulldogs' bench contributing timely baskets. The visitors also capitalized on 17 Mayville State turnovers, converting them into 22 points.

Mayville State showed strong balance in its offensive attack, with four players reaching double digits. The Comets shot 44 percent from the floor and knocked down seven threes but were outscored 40–28 in the paint—one of the deciding factors in the outcome.

Mayville State will get a much needed break heading into the Thanksgiving weekend and will hit the road December 12th to take on Dakota State in Madison, S.D. The Comets will not return home until January. For full schedule details visit: https://msucomets.com/sports/mens-basketball/schedule