BOZEMAN — Idaho State used a sizeable advantage in rebounding and a strong first half from beyond the three-point arc to post a 74-63 win over Montana State, Saturday afternoon in Shroyer Gym. The loss ended MSU’s six-game winning streak. ISU-MSU stats
Idaho State (6-11, 4-4) connected on seven-of-12 three-point attempts and held an eight rebound advantage under the boards to take a 46-36 lead at intermission. The Bengals used a 15-7 run in the final five-minutes of the opening stanza to give itself a 10-point cushion at halftime.
“Idaho State had a great first half shooting the ball,” Montana State head coach Tricia Binford said. “It was a physical game and we didn’t respond to it. We gave up too many offensive boards and on the other end; we were impatient with the offense, which is uncharacteristic of us.”
Montana State (11-6, 6-2) opened the second half with an 8-1 run to cut the margin to 47-44 with 16:30 remaining following a Jackie Elliott free throw. Leading 62-54 with 5:22 left, the Bengals scored seven unanswered points and cruised to the win down the stretch.
Montana State was led in the loss by Kalli Durham with 13 points, which included a seven-of-eight effort from the free throw line. The Miles City product also added a game-high four steals. Also in double-digits was senior Ashley Brumwell with 12 points. Brumwell guided MSU under the glass with seven rebounds.
For the game, Montana State shot 38 percent from the field. The Bobcats also saw a streak of four straight games shooting over 50 percent from the field in the second half snapped, connecting on just 32 percent in the final twenty minutes.
Idaho State finished with a 43-25 advantage in rebounding.
The Bengals had three players in double-figures led by Rebecca Schrimpsher with 18 points, including four triples.
Montana State will host Southern Utah on Thursday night in Worthington Arena.
— MSU Sports Information
