MOSCOW, Idaho— It was a close game from start to finish, but the Vandals outlasted the Vikings in 80-78 battle Saturday at Cowan Spectrum.
 
Idaho did it again with five players scoring in double-figures for the second consecutive time. Mikayla Ferenz led the Vandals with 16 points and five assists. The senior guard also added seven rebounds along with Natalie Klinker who totaled 14 points on the night. Taylor Pierce collected 15 points while Lizzy Klinker grabbed a team-high eight boards and finished the game with 12 points.
 
THE GAME
The first half of play was even as both teams fought for a lead larger than seven points. The Vikings held onto a five-point lead, 36-31 late in the second quarter before the Splash Sisters hit a couple of threes for a one-point advantage. Heading into the half, the Vikings owned a one-point edge over the Vandals, 41-40.
 
Both teams stayed close in the third as they traded leads before ending the quarter tied at 58-58. Portland State rallied to take a 66-73 lead with 5 minutes left to play. Freshman guard, Marxen hit back-to-back triples to help Idaho end Portland State's momentum.
 
With the scored tied at 78-78, Lizzy Klinker drew a charge with three seconds left to play. After Idaho called a timeout and advanced the ball, Marxen was fouled on the inbound and given two free throws to secure the 80-78 victory.
 
THE NAME
Gina Marxen. For the second time, Marxen scored double-figures in a win where she contributed big minutes and big buckets to help the Vandals to a 6-2 conference record. She added 14 points, four assists and four rebounds on the night.

THE QUOTE -- Jon Newlee


Gina Marxen

 
BIG SKY ON DECK
Idaho heads back on the road to Arizona to meet NAU at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday.