By Cole Brower
Seventh Seed Montana State Billings Reaches Championship Game
Montana State University Billings upset UC San Diego 75-73 in the semifinal round of the NCAA Division II West Region.
The game started off as a shootout, with both teams trading baskets for the first few minutes. Billings pulled away around the seven minute mark due to two consecutive three-pointers from Alisha Breen and Rylee Kane. The Yellowjackets worked to extend that lead to 27-17 by the end of the first quarter.
UC San Diego responded in the second quarter. After losing some ground, the Tritons fought their way back to a deficit of just four points by the end of the half. Dalayna Sampton had 10 of UC San Diego’s 13 points in the quarter.
Early in the second half, Billings was able to extend their lead. After a brief stint in the lead, UC San Diego again lost ground headed into the final 10 minutes.
The fourth quarter was the highest scoring quarter of the game, bringing a combined 47 points. Both teams went back and forth on their offensive ends of the floor. A three-pointer from Kayla Sato gave the Tritons a three point lead with under two minutes to go, but the Yellowjackets would muster a 7-0 run over the final 1:15 to regain the lead. This run was spearheaded by Rylee Kane and Hannah Collins, who each knocked down free throws to keep Billings perfect from the line.
UC San Diego’s Sydney Sharp knocked down a three point shot with two seconds to go, but it was too little too late for the Tritons.
The Yellowjackets were led by Rylee Kane, who finished the night with 31 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and three steals. Alisha Breen contributed 27 points and seven rebounds.
For UC San Diego, Dalayna Sampton stepped up, notching 30 points, 12 rebounds and four assists. Kayla Sato ended the night with 10 points and six rebounds, and Sydney Sharp added 12 points off of the bench.
Montana State University Billings awaits the winner of Humboldt State and Alaska Anchorage. The West Region Championship is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Monday.
