Portland State lost to Montana 75-72 in the Big Sky Conference Tournament semifinal on March 10, ending its tournament run at Idaho Central Arena in Boise. The Vikings nearly overcame a 19-point deficit in the second half, closing the gap to just one point twice in the final minute but were unable to complete the comeback.
The result means Montana advances to the championship game, while Portland State, which finished as regular season champions, ends its season with a record of 20-11. Montana, seeded fourth, improved to 18-15 and will face either Idaho or Eastern Washington next.
Montana’s Money Williams led all scorers with 32 points and six rebounds, including an explosive start with 13 points in the first five minutes. Portland State was paced by Jaylin Henderson’s 23 points, while Kelcy Phipps added 14 and Terri Miller Jr. contributed 12.
Montana maintained control for much of the game through strong shooting—making over half their field goals and hitting at a high rate from three-point range—while Portland State struggled offensively early on. The Vikings trailed by as many as 19 points before mounting a late rally fueled by defensive pressure and key baskets from Henderson.
Despite forcing turnovers and narrowing the margin repeatedly in the closing moments, Portland State could not convert its final opportunities. Coach Jase Coburn said, “Credit Montana, they played a good game and had a good defensive game plan. Credit to our players for not giving up. That’s part of our culture, that we never give up.” He added: “To be down 19 and still have a chance to win the game with a couple seconds left, that’s pretty crazy.” Coburn also reflected on his team’s achievements this season: “I’m proud of our team for clawing back in that game. Obviously, losing sucks, but ultimately we took a couple minutes (in the locker room) to reflect on all the good things this team has done this season. We won a regular season championship for the first time since 2008. This is one of my most favorite teams I have ever coached, and definitely the most resilient groups I have ever coached. I hope they made all the Portland State Vikings proud – current and former.”
