“Fatigue from the long week affected our first half energy,” said Spartan Head Coach Shawn Sorenson. “All of our guys committed to defense and rebounding in the second half and for the second game in a row that was the difference.” 

Austin Miller had a huge game, scoring 27 points on 9-of-13 shooting. Samuel Priem and Aaron Solberg added 13 points each and TJ Martin was also in double digits with 10 points, while adding 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Martin LaFondcontributed 9 points and 6 rebounds. 

The Spartans shot 48.3% (29-60) from the field and knocked down 38.5% (10-26) of their treys. Mesabi Range made 22-of-54 field goal attempts for 40.7%, and went 12-for-13 from the free throw line. 

The Norse were led by Calvin Lee with a double-double (14 points, 12 rebounds). Alban Cooke added 10 points and Bryce Hempel contributed 8 points off the bench. 

The win was the third in a row for the Spartans who are now 3-3. They will face Northland Community College in Thief River Falls on Friday night and then Itasca Community College on Saturday afternoon in Grand Rapids.