POCATELLO, Idaho (Interstat) — In a defensive struggle defined by missed opportunities at the free-throw line, the South Dakota Coyotes edged the Idaho State Bengals in a non-conference women’s basketball thriller Sunday at Holt Arena.

The Coyotes remained undefeated on the season, improving to 5-0, while the Bengals suffered their first loss, falling to 3-1.

The game was a tale of two halves and ultimately decided by a single point. South Dakota, which led for the majority of the contest, saw a late surge from Idaho State nearly erase its advantage. With just two seconds remaining, Idaho State’s Sophia Covello drove for a layup to give the Bengals a one-point lead, sending the home crowd of 753 into a frenzy.

However, South Dakota had one final possession. Out of a timeout, the Coyotes inbounded the ball to Angelina Robles, who drained a 3-pointer as time expired to secure the dramatic 64-63 victory for the visitors.

The contest was characterized by frigid shooting and physical play. Both teams struggled from the field, with South Dakota converting 20 of 62 attempts and Idaho State making 20 of 58. The difference came at the charity stripe, where the Bengals left 12 points on the board, shooting 20 for 32. South Dakota was more efficient, making 16 of its 21 free-throw attempts.

South Dakota’s Patience Williams was a force on the glass, pulling down a game-high 18 rebounds to go with nine points. Her presence inside was pivotal for the Coyotes. Teammate Elise Turrubiates recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Jenna Hopp contributed 13 points.

For Idaho State, Sophia Covello and Piper Carlson shouldered the scoring load, each finishing with 16 points. Carlson added six rebounds and two assists, while Covello dished out three assists. Kacey Spink filled the stat sheet with six points, six rebounds and a game-high six assists.

The game began as a low-scoring affair, with South Dakota taking a 9-6 lead after the first quarter. The Coyotes extended their lead to 22-20 by halftime. A stronger third quarter from Idaho State, where they outscored South Dakota 21-19, set the stage for the back-and-forth fourth quarter that culminated in the game-winning shot.

South Dakota’s defense was active, generating five steals, while Idaho State’s rim protection was evident with six blocked shots. The Bengals also won the turnover battle, committing nine to South Dakota’s 14, which helped them stay within striking distance.

The victory extends South Dakota’s early-season momentum, while Idaho State will look to rebound from its first setback.