Event Preview
Overview
The Idaho State Bengals are set to host the Denver Pioneers in a men's basketball matchup on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Reed Gym in Pocatello, Idaho. This game is part of the annual Big Sky-Summit League Challenge, a series designed to foster competition between teams from the Big Sky and Summit League conferences. The Bengals and Pioneers have a storied history, with Denver leading the all-time series 7-4, including a 95-82 overtime victory in their most recent encounter in January 2024. (denverpioneers.com)
Season Snapshot
Idaho State Bengals
The Bengals enter this game with a 5-4 record, showcasing a balanced performance in the early stages of the season. Offensively, they average 73.1 points per game, while defensively, they allow 67.0 points per game. Their home court advantage at Reed Gym has been significant, with a 2-0 record at home. (covers.com)
Denver Pioneers
The Pioneers come into this matchup with a 3-5 record. They have demonstrated offensive prowess, averaging 75.6 points per game, but have struggled defensively, conceding 87.4 points per game. Their away record stands at 2-4, indicating challenges in road games. (covers.com)
Recent Form
Idaho State Bengals
In their most recent game, the Bengals secured a 93-89 victory over Eastern Washington, with five players finishing in double figures. Jeremiah Burke led the team with 23 points, and Zane Nelson contributed 17 points off the bench. (denverpioneers.com)
Denver Pioneers
The Pioneers are coming off a 93-89 win against Eastern Washington, where they had five players score in double figures. Jeremiah Burke led the team with 23 points, and Zane Nelson added 17 points off the bench. (denverpioneers.com)
Talking Points
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Idaho State's Home Advantage: The Bengals have been strong at home, boasting a 2-0 record at Reed Gym.
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Denver's Offensive Firepower: The Pioneers average 75.6 points per game, indicating a potent offense.
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Defensive Challenges: Both teams have areas to improve defensively, with Idaho State allowing 67.0 points per game and Denver conceding 87.4 points per game.
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Key Player Matchups: The performance of individual players, such as Idaho State's Connor Hollenbeck and Denver's Carson Johnson, will be crucial.
Players to Watch
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Connor Hollenbeck (Idaho State): A graduate forward leading the Bengals with 12.9 points per game and 17 three-pointers this season. (isubengals.com)
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Carson Johnson (Denver): A standout guard averaging 18.1 points per game, ranking second in the Summit League. (isubengals.com)
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Jeremiah Burke (Denver): Scored 23 points in the recent win over Eastern Washington, showcasing his scoring ability. (denverpioneers.com)
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Zane Nelson (Denver): Contributed 17 points off the bench in the same game, highlighting his impact as a reserve player. (denverpioneers.com)
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Caleb Van De Griend (Idaho State): Provides an efficient interior presence, averaging 15.0 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. (isubengals.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Offensive Efficiency vs. Defensive Stability: Idaho State's offense, averaging 73.1 points per game, will face Denver's defense, which allows 87.4 points per game. Conversely, Denver's high-scoring offense will test Idaho State's defensive capabilities.
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Home Court Advantage: Idaho State's perfect home record (2-0) could play a significant role in this matchup.
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Individual Scoring Battles: The performances of key players like Hollenbeck and Johnson will be pivotal in determining the game's outcome.
Fun Facts
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Series History: Denver leads the all-time series 7-4, including a 95-82 overtime win in January 2024. (denverpioneers.com)
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High-Scoring Affair: In their last meeting, both teams combined for 177 points, indicating a potential for another high-scoring game.
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Big Sky-Summit League Challenge: This game is part of the annual Big Sky-Summit League Challenge, fostering inter-conference competition. (isubengals.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Idaho State maintain their perfect home record against Denver?"
- "Will Denver's high-scoring offense overpower Idaho State's defense?"
- "How will the performances of Hollenbeck and Johnson influence the game's outcome?"
- "Is this the year Idaho State finally secures a win over Denver after four consecutive losses?"
Prediction
While both teams have shown offensive prowess, Idaho State's home advantage and defensive consistency may give them the edge in this matchup. However, Denver's potent offense, led by Carson Johnson, could pose significant challenges. The game is expected to be closely contested, with Idaho State slightly favored to secure the win.