Event Preview
Overview
The Montana Lady Griz are set to host the St. Thomas Tommies in a women's basketball matchup on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM Eastern European Summer Time (EEST). This game is part of the Big Sky Conference-Summit League Challenge, a series designed to foster competition between teams from the two conferences. For Montana, this is their only home game in December, making it a crucial opportunity to build momentum before a month-long stretch away from Missoula. (gogriz.com)
Season Snapshot
The Lady Griz enter this game with a 2-5 record, having recently snapped a five-game losing streak with a decisive 86-56 victory over North Dakota. This win marked their largest margin of victory over a Division I opponent since 2023. (bvmsports.com) St. Thomas, on the other hand, holds a 3-6 record. They have shown resilience, securing back-to-back wins against Tabor College and North Dakota, indicating a potential turnaround in their season. (tommiesports.com)
Recent Form
Montana's recent form has been a mix of challenges and breakthroughs. After a tough start to the season, their recent victory over North Dakota suggests a positive shift. St. Thomas has also experienced a rollercoaster season, with their recent back-to-back wins providing a boost in confidence. Both teams are looking to build on these performances as they face each other.
Talking Points
- Montana's Home Advantage: With this being their only home game in December, the Lady Griz are eager to capitalize on familiar surroundings.
- St. Thomas' Momentum: Can the Tommies extend their winning streak to three games?
- Defensive Strategies: Both teams have shown defensive prowess; which squad will impose their will?
- Key Player Matchups: Individual performances could tip the scales in this closely contested game.
- Big Sky-Summit Challenge Implications: How will this game impact the overall standings in the challenge series?
Players to Watch
- M. Konig (Montana): A standout guard averaging 14.7 points per game, Konig's scoring ability is vital for the Lady Griz. (espn.com)
- A. Sand (St. Thomas): Leading the Tommies with 14.1 points per game, Sand's offensive contributions are crucial. (espn.com)
- G. Fields (Montana): Known for her defensive skills, Fields' ability to disrupt plays will be key. (tommiesports.com)
- C. Bjerke (St. Thomas): A sharpshooter with 24 three-pointers this season, Bjerke can change the game's dynamics from beyond the arc. (tommiesports.com)
- J. Pridgen (Montana): A versatile player contributing 13.3 points and 8.1 rebounds per game, Pridgen's presence is felt on both ends of the court. (gogriz.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Guard Play: The battle between Montana's M. Konig and St. Thomas' A. Sand will be pivotal, as both are primary scoring threats.
- Three-Point Shooting: With C. Bjerke's proficiency from beyond the arc, St. Thomas' perimeter shooting could be a game-changer.
- Defensive Rebounding: J. Pridgen's rebounding prowess will be tested against St. Thomas' frontcourt, impacting second-chance opportunities.
- Bench Contributions: Depth could play a significant role; which team's bench will provide the necessary support?
Fun Facts
- This is the first meeting between Montana and St. Thomas in women's basketball. (gogriz.com)
- Montana's 86-56 win over North Dakota was their largest margin of victory over a Division I opponent since 2023. (bvmsports.com)
- St. Thomas has a history of strong performances in the Big Sky-Summit Challenge, having secured victories in previous editions. (tommiesports.com)
- The game is scheduled to take place at Dahlberg Arena in Missoula, Montana. (gogriz.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Montana's home court advantage lead them to a much-needed win?"
- "Will St. Thomas' recent winning streak continue against the Lady Griz?"
- "How will the battle between Konig and Sand unfold?"
- "Is this the game where Bjerke's three-point shooting takes over?"
Prediction
This matchup is poised to be a closely contested game. Montana's home advantage and recent victory suggest they have the momentum, but St. Thomas' back-to-back wins indicate they are finding their rhythm. The outcome may hinge on key individual performances and which team can execute their game plan more effectively.