VALLEY CITY, N.D. -- Mariah Payne scored 17 points to lead four players in double figures for Minot State, but the Beavers dropped their exhibition opener to Valley City State 67-66 on Thursday.

Madison Wald and Anna Counts each scored 12 points, while Kari Clements finished with 11 points for Minot State.

Payne also added a team-high seven rebounds, while Counts added six rebounds.

Minot State shot 38.7 percent from the floor for the game and 78.6 percent from the free throw line.

Minot State outscored Valley City State 21-16 in the second quarter and 23-19 in the fourth quarter.

The Beavers return to action on Saturday (Oct. 27) against Dickinson State in an exhibition game at 4 Bears Casino & Lodge at 6 p.m.