The Metro State men's basketball team (4-1) used a strong first half and held on to defeat Dixie State, 73-59, Saturday night at the Auraria Events Center.

The 'Runners wasted no time establishing themselves offensively, racing out to leads of 6-0 and 25-11. MSCD ended the first half with a 20 point lead, 41-21, shooting 44% from the field compared to 33% from the Rebels. Dixie State got its offense on track in the second half. The Rebels closed the score to 10 at 65-55 with just two minutes remaining, but the 'Runners went four for six from the line down the stretch to finish off the game.

Metro State begins Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) play at Adams State, Friday at 8 p.m.