ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—The Bethel University men's basketball team was hungry for a victory Saturday afternoon when they welcomed Saint John's University to Arden Hills. Not only did the Royals (15-6, 11-5 MIAC) want to put an end to the two-game skid they recently endured, but they also wanted to avenge an 81-87 setback against the Johnnies (14-6, 10-5 MIAC) that took place in Collegeville on January 16. BU was able to kill two birds with one stone thanks to a 90-83 victory over SJU in front of a packed Robertson Center. 
 
Bethel led nearly the entire game with the exception of a five-minute stretch early in the first half. Both teams went shot-for-shot until there was just under eight minutes left in the opening frame, when at that point BU went on a 17-3 run to close out the opening frame.
   
The Royals used that 13-point cushion at the intermission break to their advantage in the second half. SJU was able to cut it to nine with 14:17 remaining in the game, but BU never really let them closer. In fact, several Johnnie fouls down the stretch helped Bethel earn 34 free throws in the second half.
 
Bethel finished the game shooting 52.6 percent from the floor and 62 percent from inside the 3-point line. Meanwhile, Saint John's made 47.4 percent from the floor and 9-of-27 shots (33.3 percent) from outside the arc.
 
Bridgeport Tusler joined Bethel's prestigious 1,000-point club Saturday, as the junior guard needed five points heading into the game. Tusler finished with 18 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
 
Leading the Royals in points was Brycen Wojta, who tallied 21 points, four steals, two boards, and two assists.
 
Also having exceptional performances was Derek Magnuson and Trevor Hall. Magnuson posted his fifth double-double of the season and ninth career with 18 points and 11 rebounds. The sophomore post player was perfect from the floor, making 7-of-7 field goals attempted. Hall added 17 points, six rebounds, and four steals in 36 minutes of play.
 
Bethel is back in second place among MIAC opponents with four games remaining on the regular season schedule. The Royals' next opponent is Saint Mary's University on Wednesday, February 8. Tipoff against the Cardinals is scheduled for 7 p.m.