Bengals down Bulldogs 61-53

Pocatello, ID- The Idaho State men's basketball team defeated the Montana Western Bulldogs in a close game 61-53 Tuesday evening in Reed Gym.

The Bulldogs pushed the Bengals to their limits in the first half, surging to a 14-0 lead. Idaho State calmly made their way back into the game finishing the first half only trailing 26-22. The Bengals scratched and clawed all second half until they were finally able to take their first lead of the game with just eight minutes remaining and never looked back from there.

Jared Rodriguez led the Bengal's scoring attack with 21 points on seven-of-ten shooting for the game. Brock Mackenzie also played a crucial role in the Bengal's comeback win, scoring 13 points with no turnovers. Brayden Parker also chipped in 10 points and six rebounds. 

The Bengals shot 47 percent from the field and made eight three-pointers on 24 attempts. The Bengals assisted on 12 made shots, and out-rebounded the Bulldogs 33-30. The Bengal defense held Montana Western to 37.3 percent from the field. The big push from the Bengals in the second half lead to the victory. In the second half the Bengals were able to shoot 62 percent from the field and 46 percent from deep.

Idaho State returns to action against the University of St. Thomas at home, Saturday, December 10, at 6:00 pm.