The University of Idaho women’s basketball team suffered a decisive loss to Montana State on January 10, falling 99-66 in Bozeman. The Bobcats controlled the game from start to finish, shooting over 50 percent from the field while holding the Vandals to just 33 percent shooting accuracy.
Montana State’s balanced offensive attack proved too much for Idaho to handle. Taylee Chirrick led the Bobcats with 23 points, seven rebounds, and a team-high seven steals. The Montana State offense generated 20 assists on 35 made field goals, demonstrating efficient ball movement and execution throughout the contest. The Bobcats also dominated the three-point line, connecting on 12 of 31 attempts for 38 percent accuracy.
Ana Pinheiro paced Idaho’s offense with 15 points and six rebounds in the loss. The Vandals struggled with consistency, managing only 21 field goals on 62 attempts. Idaho’s shooting woes extended beyond two-point range, where the team made just four of 19 three-point attempts. The Vandals did show strength at the free-throw line, converting 20 of 23 attempts for 87 percent accuracy.
Turning Point: Early Montana State Run
The game was essentially decided in the opening quarter. Montana State scored 29 points in the first frame while holding Idaho to just 17, establishing a dominant pace that the Vandals could never overcome. The Bobcats’ defense forced 25 turnovers and limited the Vandals’ offensive options throughout the matchup.
Idaho managed to stay competitive in the fourth quarter, outscoring Montana State 20-20, but the deficit had grown insurmountable by that point. The Vandals trailed 74-47 heading into the final period, making any comeback mathematically impossible.
Statistical Disparities
The rebounding battle favored Montana State, which pulled down 40 rebounds compared to Idaho’s 38. Both teams secured 13 offensive rebounds, but the Bobcats’ overall efficiency on the glass contributed to their dominant performance. Montana State’s defense was particularly stifling, registering 13 steals compared to Idaho’s eight.
The Vandals committed 25 turnovers against Montana State’s 15, a significant disadvantage that limited Idaho’s offensive opportunities and handed possession back to the Bobcats repeatedly. Idaho also drew 24 fouls compared to 21 for Montana State.
The game drew 2,145 fans to Worthington Arena in Bozeman. The loss underscores the challenges Idaho faces in conference play, as the Vandals continue their 2026 season. The team will look to bounce back in upcoming matchups and improve their offensive efficiency and ball-handling moving forward.
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