BOZEMAN — Three double-digit performances propelled the Montana State women's basketball team to a 70-46 victory over the Lady Griz to open up their two-game series on Thursday at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.
"I'm just really proud of how the team executed the game plan on the defensive end (Thursday)," said Montana State head coach Tricia Binford. "We knew we had our hands full, and I thought we got the stops we needed to create some possessions for us offensively."
"Let's give Montana State all the credit," said Montana head coach Mike Petrino. "They played well. They were aggressive, so don't take anything away from them. They did what they had to do. I can't say I'm not surprised by anything they did. It's a team we prepared for with our assistant coach, Jordan (Sullivan) did a great job on the scout preparing. I'll take responsibility for us not performing better."
Tori Martell led the Bobcats with a team-high 18-points and finished 4 of 5 from 3-point range. Darian White followed with 13 points, and Gabby Mocchi with 12.
"I took a few shots at halftime, and I was feeling pretty good," said Martell, a senior guard. "That first shot right out of the half went in, and the basket did feel a little bit bigger. I just kept shooting when I was open, and they were going in."
The Lady Griz held a one-point lead after the first quarter, but an 11-3 Montana State run to close out the first half put the Bobcats up 30-20.
Montana State built on its momentum in the second half, outscoring Montana 40-26 and finishing 39% from the floor.
"They're not probably happy with the outcome of this game, so they're going to come ready to play on Saturday," added Martell. "Dahlberg Arena is always tough to play in, even without the fans. I think we just have to lock in with our freshmen, too, and tell them that's a hard atmosphere even without fans."
Both teams will travel to Missoula to close out their two-game series Saturday at noon.
