Vandal Hoops Crushes Pacific in a Commanding 95-72 Showdown

Stockton, Calif – Idaho Men’s Basketball (5-8) recorded a season-best 58.7 percent shooting from the field and hit 15 three-pointers to claim a dominant wire-to-wire triumph over Pacific (5-9), 95-72.

The Vandals were spearheaded by Kolton Mitchell for the second consecutive match, with the Coeur d’Alene native achieving a career-high of 32 points, marking the first 30-point display from a Vandal since February 2023. Additionally, three other Vandals contributed in double-digits as Kristian Gonzalez netted 20 points, his sixth double-figure outing of the season, while Julius Mims and Tyler Linhardt each scored 14. 

Idaho started with an explosive opener, taking an 8-0 lead within the first 2:28. The Vandals began to extend their lead in the initial frame, achieving a maximum 20-point margin at the 9:48 checkpoint. However, the Tigers mounted a comeback, launching an 18-8 run before the under 4-minute media break. Unfazed, Idaho finished the first half strong with nine consecutive points, headed into the locker room leading by 16 after shooting 53 percent. 

The second half mirrored the first for Idaho, as the Vandals outscored Pacific 48-41 over the final 20 minutes. Mims showcased two highlight-reel dunks in the last four minutes, capping off a 23-point victory for Idaho. 

The Vandals boasted a shooting percentage of 58.7, the highest for any Idaho team since February 4, 2023. Idaho’s 15 three-pointers set a new record for most made against a DI opponent since November 10, 2021.

The Vandals will now return to Moscow to commence Big Sky play in the new year. They’ll host the defending tournament champions Montana State on Thursday, January 2, 2025, followed by Montana on Saturday, January 4, 2025.