BOBCATS, VANDALS MEET IN BIG SKY SHOWDOWN

CALDWELL, Idaho (Interstat) — Two teams riding winning streaks will clash Saturday when the Montana State Bobcats visit the Idaho Vandals in a Big Sky Conference men’s basketball matchup.

The game is scheduled for Jan. 10, 2026, at Idaho Central Credit Union Arena.

Both teams enter with 9-win records. Montana State (9-7, 3-0 Big Sky) has won five consecutive games, most recently a 68-64 road victory at Eastern Washington on Thursday. Idaho (9-6, 1-1) saw its three-game win streak snapped in a 79-73 home loss to Montana that same night.

The Bobcats are powered by the hot hand of guard Christian King, who is averaging 17.0 points per game during the team’s win streak. He scored a season-high 27 points in 31 minutes against Eastern Washington. Forward Patrick McMahon added 20 points in that victory, providing crucial secondary scoring.

Idaho will counter with guard Jackson Rasmussen, who leads the team in scoring at 11.9 points per game. He posted 16 points in the loss to Montana. The Vandals have shown resilience, winning an overtime game at Cal Poly 83-80 last month and averaging 86.3 points per game in their last three victories.

Montana State’s surge has been marked by improved offense, averaging 79.2 points during its five-game streak after some early-season struggles. Idaho has been strong at home, boasting a 6-2 record in Caldwell this season.

This contest represents an early test of conference positioning. Montana State aims to protect its unblemished Big Sky record, while Idaho looks to rebound and defend its home court.