Big Sky Showdown Features Hot Bears, Struggling Grizzlies

MISSOULA, Mont. (Interstat) — A surging Northern Colorado team visits a reeling Montana squad to open the Big Sky Conference men’s basketball schedule Saturday at Dahlberg Arena.

The Northern Colorado Bears (10-3) enter conference play with momentum, coming off an impressive 86-81 road win at Colorado on Dec. 28. The Montana Grizzlies (6-7) seek to rebound from a 40-point loss at Louisville in their last outing on Dec. 20.

The Bears’ strong start has been fueled by guard Quinn Denker, who delivered a dominant performance against Colorado with 33 points, eight rebounds and eight assists. Northern Colorado’s offense averages over 84 points per game and has shown resilience with several close victories, including an overtime win against South Dakota.

Montana, meanwhile, has struggled for consistency. After a season-opening road win at UNLV, the Grizzlies have lost five of their last eight. They will rely on forward Grant Kepley, who scored 15 points in the loss at Louisville, to provide a spark against a potent Bears attack.

The matchup pits Northern Colorado’s high-scoring offense against a Montana defense that allowed 94 points in its last contest. The Bears also feature secondary scoring options like Ibu Yamazaki and Brock Wisne, who combined for 32 points against Colorado.

Historically, games at Dahlberg Arena have been a tough test for visitors. The Grizzlies will need that home-court advantage to slow a Northern Colorado team that has already secured road wins at Portland, Air Force and Colorado this season.

Saturday’s contest is the conference opener for both teams. Northern Colorado begins a stretch of three straight home games after this, while Montana embarks on a two-game road trip next week.

Tipoff is set for Saturday afternoon.