Northern Colorado women’s basketball secured its first Big Sky Conference road win of the season with a victory over Idaho State in Pocatello on Thursday night. The Bears improved their record to 11–5 overall and 2–1 in conference play.
The game began with both teams struggling offensively, but Northern Colorado established defensive pressure early. This led to forced turnovers and points in transition for the Bears.
Heather Baymon and Neenah George contributed key three-pointers and drives to the basket in the opening quarter. Gabi Fields ended the first period by hitting a half-court shot at the buzzer, giving Northern Colorado a 21–15 lead.
In the second quarter, Idaho State tried to close the gap, but Northern Colorado maintained control through ball movement and timely shooting. Baymon’s jumper before halftime sent UNC into the break leading 31–25, with George scoring 11 points in the first half.
After halftime, Northern Colorado increased its defensive intensity. Although Idaho State cut the deficit to four points during a third-quarter rally, Julia Riley responded with a three-pointer that helped extend UNC’s lead. The Bears capitalized on second-chance opportunities and entered the fourth quarter ahead 49–36.
Riley added another important three-pointer late in the game, while George converted an and-one play to push Northern Colorado’s lead to double digits. Despite a late three from Idaho State, disciplined defense allowed UNC to secure the win.
George led all scorers with 19 points on 8-of-15 shooting and made two of her four attempts from beyond the arc. Aniah Hall scored 14 points; Fields had 11; Riley finished with 10; Tatum West collected a team-high 13 rebounds.
Northern Colorado will continue its road trip against Weber State in Ogden, Utah on Saturday, January 10 at 2 p.m. MT.
Fans can follow updates about Northern Colorado women’s basketball at uncbears.com or on social media platforms including X (@UNC_BearsWBB), Instagram (@UNC_BearsWBB), and Facebook (/UNCBearsWBB).
