GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The Montana Western men's basketball team (12-9) avenged an earlier loss to the University of Providence (11-10), defeating the Argos 66-55 this evening.
"I'm really proud of our guys for getting a road win tonight," Head Coach Pat Jensen said. "They played great defense and had big contributions from everyone."
Kevin Bethel had his best game in a Bulldog uniform, setting career highs in multiple categories, including 15 points, six made free throws, eight rebounds, and six steals.
How it Happened
The Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead, extending their advantage to as much as 10 points midway through the first quarter, fueled by
Kyle Gruhler's 11 first-half points.
Alan Kane and
Abi Adedo each grabbed three rebounds, helping Western win the first-half rebounding battle 20-17. Bethel anchored the defense with four of his six steals, while Kane and
Kolter Merritt each added two as the Bulldogs forced 12 Providence turnovers.
The Argos fought back to tie the game at 30, but Western responded to take a 33-30 lead into halftime.
Providence briefly took a one-point lead with 15 minutes remaining, but the Bulldogs quickly regained control and never looked back.
Jacob Ankeny provided a spark off the bench, scoring six points on 3-4 shooting.
Bethel led the charge with 13 second-half points, knocking down all six of his free throws while also securing six of his eight rebounds.
Western's defense proved crucial down the stretch, holding Providence to just 28.6% shooting (8-28) in the second half and forcing seven turnovers. The Bulldogs also controlled the boards, out-rebounding the Argos 16-11 to seal the 66-55 victory.
Notables
- Adedo scored 12 points on 6-10 shooting while dishing out four assists.
- Ankeny finished with 10 points on 5-6 shooting and added one block.
- Gruhler pulled down six rebounds to go along with his 13 points.
- The Bulldogs dominated the paint, outscoring the Argos 42-18 inside.
- Providence committed 19 turnovers, leading to 20 points for Western.
Up Next
The Bulldogs will travel to Butte to face No. 9 Montana Tech this Saturday, February 1, with tip-off set for 4 p.m.
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