Montana defeats N Arizona 78-64
Montana Grinds Out 78-64 Victory Over Visiting N Arizona in Conference Showdown
Dahlberg Arena, Missoula, MT - January 1, 2026
In a tightly contested conference matchup, Montana (HOME) outlasted the visiting N Arizona Wildcats by a score of 78-64 on Friday night. The Grizzlies, led by senior forward Brooklyn Hicks' 15 points, demonstrated their home-court advantage as they held off the Wildcats' late surge.
The game was tied at halftime, with both teams combining for 68 points in the first 20 minutes. However, Montana's more efficient shooting and rebounding efforts allowed them to take a commanding lead entering the second half. By the end of the night, N Arizona trailed by as many as 14 points.
Hicks, who shot 50% from the field and connected on two three-pointers, led all scorers for both teams. His teammate Tyler Thompson added 14 points, six rebounds, and two assists, while Grant Kepley chipped in with six assists and four points off the bench.
On the other side of the court, N Arizona's Ryan Abelman scored 13 points but struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 3-8. Traivar Jackson led the Wildcats' rebounding effort, grabbing 10 boards to go along with eight points and two steals.
Montana's balanced attack allowed them to outscore their visitors in all five key statistical categories: field goal percentage, free throw rate, offensive rebounding, defensive rebounding, and turnover differential.
In a closely contested matchup that showcased the strengths of both teams, Montana's home-court advantage ultimately proved decisive. The Grizzlies' victory moves them closer to the top of the conference standings and sets up an intriguing showdown with their next opponent.
Game Stats:
- Field Goals: 28/52 (54.0%)
- Free Throws: 12/14 (86.0%)
- Rebounds: 29
- Assists: 17
- Turnovers: 13
- Field Goals: 23/54 (43.0%)
- Free Throws: 11/15 (73.0%)
- Rebounds: 30
- Assists: 12
- Turnovers: 13