BOBCATS, BENGALS MEET IN BIG SKY SHOWDOWN

POCATELLO, Idaho (Interstat) — Two of the Big Sky Conference’s top teams clash Thursday when the Montana State Bobcats visit the Idaho State Bengals in a key women’s basketball matchup.

The game, scheduled for Jan. 22, 2026, at Holt Arena, features a Montana State squad (13-4) riding a seven-game winning streak against an Idaho State team (11-6) looking to protect its home court and gain ground in the conference standings.

The Bobcats have been dominant during their streak, winning by an average of 18.3 points. They are coming off a 71-57 victory over Northern Colorado on Monday, powered by 23 points from standout forward Addison Harris. Harris has been a consistent force, scoring in double figures in five of the last seven games, including two 23-point performances.

Idaho State halted a two-game skid with a 66-57 road win at Eastern Washington last Saturday. Guard Piper Carlson led the way with 15 points in that victory. Carlson has been a reliable scorer for the Bengals, reaching double figures in three of her last six outings.

Montana State’s offense has been prolific, averaging 79.1 points per game during its current win streak. The Bobcats’ defense has also been stifling, holding opponents to an average of 60.7 points over that same span.

Idaho State has relied on a tougher defensive approach, particularly at home, where they have held opponents to an average of 56.8 points in their last five games in Pocatello. The Bengals will need that defensive intensity to counter Montana State’s high-powered attack.

The contest is the first of two regular-season meetings between the programs this season. They are scheduled to meet again in Bozeman on Feb. 21.

Following this game, Montana State travels to face Weber State on Saturday. Idaho State remains at home to host rival Montana on Saturday.