SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Rogers State men's basketball (1-0) opened the regular season with a 63-54 win over Southwest Minnesota State (0-1) in the opening game of the MIAA/NSIC Challenge on Friday.

Two Hillcats finished in double-digits in the win. Senior Devin Pullum led the squad with 14 points, two rebounds and a steal. Senior Brewster Peacock was close behind with 13 points of his own in addition to four rebounds, an assist and a steal. Newcomer Jordan Coblin contributed nine points, a team-high five assists and three rebounds off the bench. Senior Joey Saracco posted a team-high nine rebounds with five points, two blocks and a steal.

After quickly going down 4-0 in the first five minutes of the game, RSU found their footing and ripped off a 13-2 run to claim a 13-6 lead with seven and half minutes left in the period. They managed to hold the advantage and led 24-19 going into the half.

After the break, the Mustangs scored a quick jumper and cut the deficit to single possession at 24-21 to start the second half. However, just like at the start of the game, the Hillcats answered with a 10-3 run to push back out to 34-24 for their first double-digit lead. SMSU was able to cut the lead back down to four points at 39-35 just under midway through the half. Continuing the theme of the game, RSU responded again with a 12-0 run to take their largest lead at 51-37. The Mustangs attempted one final comeback, but were unable to get within eight points. The Hillcats hung on to take the 63-54 victory.

RSU will be back in action on Saturday, Nov. 13 as they face off against host Concordia-St. Paul in the finale of the MIAA/NSIC Challenge. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m.