University of Montana Western Press Release
DILLON, Mont. – The Montana Western men's basketball team (12-11) fell in a back-and-forth home game to (RV) Rocky Mountain College (16-7), 98-93, this evening.
Jalyn Stepney led the Bulldogs effort and finished with 21 points.
How it Happened:
Stepney provided an early spark for the Bulldogs, knocking down three first-half three-pointers, while Abi Adedo contributed six points and five rebounds in the first half.
Despite shooting 42.1% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range, Montana Western struggled at the free-throw line, converting just 6 of 10 attempts. Rocky capitalized on their opportunities, making 11 of 13 free throws.
The Bulldogs managed to stay within striking distance in large part to their ability to score in the paint and force turnovers, converting 17 points off Rocky's first half turnovers.
Rocky Mountain started the second half strong, extending their lead to eight early. However, the Bulldogs battled back, with Adedo scoring 14 of his 20 points after halftime. Kyle Gruhler added 10 second-half points, including a key three-pointer late in the game.
Despite Montana Western shooting 52.8% from the field in the second half, Rocky's advantage at the free-throw line proved to be the difference. The Battlin' Bears finished 30-of-39 from the stripe, while the Bulldogs finished 10-of-24, which ultimately was the difference in the game.
Notables:
Stepney would finish the game shooting 6-11 from the field and 4-7 from beyond the arc.
Adedo and Gruhler would each finish the game with nine rebounds.
The Bulldogs would score 48 points in the paint compared to the Bear's 32 points.
Western would turn Rocky over 13 times leading to 17 points off turnovers.
UMW would be whistled for 27 fouls compared to Rocky's 15 fouls.
Up Next
The Bulldogs will stay at home to take on Carroll College this Saturday, February 8, with tip-off set for 4 p.m.
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