Late Push Falls Short for Northern Colorado in 73–69 Loss to Idaho State

Saturday, February 7

Greeley, Colo.

2 p.m. MST

University of Northern Colorado

17-8,8-4Big Sky

Idaho State

16-7,9-3Big Sky

Idaho St.

Northern Colo.

Jesus Ayala | UNC Athletics

2/7/2026 4:28:00 PM | Women's Basketball

Box Score

By: Elian Soto, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications

GREELEY, Colo. - Northern Colorado put together its best stretch of the afternoon in the third quarter, but a late push came up just short as the Bears fell to Idaho State, 73–69, Saturday afternoon at Bank of Colorado Arena.

The Bears led 17–14 after the opening quarter, but Idaho State used a 23-point second period to take control heading into halftime, building a 37–27 advantage. UNC struggled to find a rhythm offensively in the second quarter but stayed within striking distance behind defensive stops and steady rebounding on the interior.

Coming out of the break, the Bears erupted for 25 points in the third quarter while shooting 72.7 percent from the floor and knocking down four three-pointers, trimming the deficit to just two heading into the final 10 minutes. UNC's ball movement and transition offense sparked the run and helped shift momentum back to the home bench.

The Bears were balanced offensively, led by Neenah George and Tatum West, who each finished with a team-high 12 points. Gabi Fields followed with 11 points, and Aniah Hall added 10, giving Northern Colorado four players in double figures.

Julia Riley went 3-for-5 from three-point range, while Lilah Moore added two makes from beyond the arc.

On the glass, West led the team with a game high six rebounds, helping UNC battle inside throughout the afternoon. George and Fields also shared the play making load, finishing with a team-high three assists apiece, while West anchored the perimeter defensively with a team best three steals.

Northern Colorado continued to trade baskets with the Bengals throughout the fourth quarter and erased the deficit late, pulling even in the final minute. The Bears generated multiple looks in the closing possessions, but Idaho State converted at the free throw line down the stretch to hold on for the road victory.

UNC finished the afternoon shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 35.0 percent from three point range.

UP NEXT: The Bears will prepare to hit the road and face Sacramento State on Thursday, February 12 before heading to Portland State on Saturday, February 14.

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