Idaho State secured a significant win in the Big Sky Conference, defeating Northern Colorado 73–69 on Saturday at the Bank of Colorado Arena. The victory strengthens Idaho State’s position in the conference standings, bringing their record to 16–7 overall and 9–3 in league play.
Northern Colorado started strong with an early three-pointer and held a narrow lead after the first quarter, 17–14. Idaho State responded in the second quarter with an 11–2 run, capitalizing on defensive stops and transition opportunities. By halftime, Idaho State led 37–29 after limiting Northern Colorado’s field goals late in the period.
After halftime, Northern Colorado regained momentum with efficient shooting and a 10–2 run that gave them a brief lead. Despite being outscored 25–15 in the third quarter, Idaho State trailed by only two points entering the fourth.
The final quarter was closely contested with six lead changes and five ties. With less than a minute remaining and the game tied at 69, Piper Carlson scored through contact for a layup to give Idaho State the lead. She then added two free throws on the next possession to secure the win. The Bengals made 15 of their 17 free-throw attempts and forced difficult shots from Northern Colorado in the closing seconds.
“This is the 23rd time under Head Coach Seton Sobolewski the Bengals have had a game winning bucket with 30 seconds or less,” according to team officials. “This is Piper Carlsons’ first game-winner.”
Carlson scored Idaho State’s final six points of the game. Kacey Spink contributed a season-high 20 points, including four three-pointers—a career best for her. Aspen Caldwell also played an important role during Idaho State’s decisive second-quarter run.
Idaho State had multiple players score in double figures and shot 43 percent from the field. They also outscored Northern Colorado by eleven points in both second-chance (14–6) and fast-break (11–6) opportunities.
The Bengals will return home next week for games against Eastern Washington University and Idaho as part of ongoing Big Sky Conference play.
