Preview: North Dakota State Bison vs. Pepperdine Waves

MALIBU, Calif. (Interstat) — Two surging women’s basketball teams with identical records will meet Tuesday when North Dakota State visits Pepperdine at Firestone Fieldhouse.

Both the Bison (7-2) and the Waves (7-2) enter the nonconference matchup riding five-game winning streaks. The contest features a compelling individual duel between two of the nation’s most productive guards.

North Dakota State is powered by Avery Koenen, who has been a model of offensive consistency. Over her last five games, the guard is averaging 18.2 points and 3.2 assists, including a 22-point performance in an 83-55 road rout of Eastern Illinois last Thursday. The Bison’s only losses this season came against power-conference foe Nebraska and nationally respected Gonzaga.

Pepperdine counters with its own standout in Shorna Preston. The guard is coming off a 20-point, three-block effort in an 80-72 win over Cal State LA on Saturday. During the Waves’ five-game streak, Preston has averaged 14.8 points and showcased strong defensive play. Pepperdine’s two defeats came against Southern California and Utah Valley.

The game represents a final tune-up for both sides before each embarks on a busy stretch. North Dakota State will face Texas-Rio Grande Valley on Wednesday, also in Malibu as part of a multi-team event, before returning home. Pepperdine hosts South Dakota on Wednesday before a Saturday matchup with Cal State Northridge.

Tipoff is set for Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. The matchup marks the first meeting between the programs.