VALLEY CITY, N.D. (vcsuvikings.com) – Bellevue University shot 74 percent in the second half Friday night, outscoring Valley City State 50-38 over the final 20 minutes en route to an 89-77 men’s basketball victory.

The two teams entered the night tied for second place in the North Star Athletic Association standings, and were tied 39-39 at halftime. The second half belonged to the Bruins though as they created easy shots and outscored the Vikings by 12 points down the stretch.

Valley City State drops to 16-6 overall and 7-5 in the North Star Athletic Association. Bellevue University improves to 16-12 overall and 8-4 in the NSAA. The Bruins move into sole possession of second place in the NSAA standings, remaining one game back of conference leader Mayville State.

Eric Pierce posted a 24-point, 10-rebound double-double to lead Bellevue’s attack. Michael Wright added 17 points and Jaylen Wiltz scored 16.

Valley City State was led by 19 points and five rebounds by Jalen Addison. Kevin Schramm scored 14 and Joshua Kelly added 11 for VCSU.

The Vikings shot 47 percent overall (33-70), 24 percent on 3’s (4-17)and 58 percent at the line (7-12). Bellevue University blistered the nets in the second half and finished the game shooting 63 percent overall (31-49), 41 percent in the second half (7-17) and 77 percent on free throws (20-26).

Up next: Valley City State hosts Dakota State on Saturday. The women’s game tips at 3 p.m. with the men to follow at 5 p.m. It is Senior Night for VCSU as they recognize basketball seniors Macey Kvilvang, Maara Nelson and Connor Entzi.

Bellevue University travels to Dickinson State for a doubleheader Saturday.

PHOTO COURTESY VCSU ATHLETICS/Hannah Anderson