Montana State Advances to Big Sky Championship with Dominant Win Over Idaho State

BOISE, Idaho — The Montana State women’s basketball team overcame a six-minute scoring drought in the second quarter to secure a commanding 75-42 victory against Idaho State in the Big Sky Conference semifinals on Tuesday.

The Bobcats, the top seed in the tournament, have now advanced to the championship game for the first time since 2022, setting their sights on a return to the NCAA tournament for the fourth time in school history. With the win, Montana State improved its season record to 29-3, marking a program record for single-season victories.

“When we stay together and stay with our pace, we can get the offense flowing,” said MSU guard Esmeralda Morales. “Sometimes it was stagnant, but then we just talked about it and did us.”

Montana State took a commanding lead early in the game. Taylor Janssen hit a 3-pointer at the 7:34 mark of the second quarter, extending MSU’s lead to 26-12. However, despite the scoring challenges that followed, the Bobcats managed to secure a 15-point lead at halftime, leading 36-21 after Esmeralda Morales converted a buzzer-beater into a three-point play.

Idaho State struggled to capitalize during this period and maintained a low offensive output, scoring only six points in the third quarter. Montana State dominated that quarter, outscoring the Bengals 21-6, further solidifying their lead.

The fourth quarter showcased the Bobcats’ defensive prowess, with Lexi Deden scoring off a turnover to widen MSU’s advantage to 32 points. The team’s well-rounded scoring saw three players reach double figures, led by Issy Bunyan, who came off the bench to score 15 points.

Morales, the league’s MVP, contributed 14 points with three 3-pointers, while Marah Dykstra added 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting. As a team, the Bobcats made 11 shots from beyond the arc.

Defensively, Montana State showcased relentless pressure, recording 16 steals, eight of which came from Taylee Chirrick, named the league’s defensive player of the year. The Bobcats converted 24 points from 23 turnovers committed by Idaho State.

“She’s such a contagious player for us,” said MSU coach Tricia Binford. “She’s a momentum-swing kid. It’s pretty remarkable what she can get her hands on, and she doesn’t ever stop. Eight steals, that’s what she does. She’s pretty brilliant at it.”

Idaho State concluded its season with a record of 14-17, led by Tasia Jordan’s 14 points. Piper Carlson contributed nine points and 10 rebounds in the loss.