Moscow, ID - What a day to be Vandal. 

After the women took down Eastern Washington in an exciting 67-57 matinee, the Idaho men's team took the court in the ICCU Arena determined to do just the same in front of a packed crowd.

With the Vandal faithful at their back, the black and gold played with fire and intensity all night long to ground the Eagles 83-76, with a relentless offensive attack and a defense that got the job done when it mattered most. All in all, five Vandals finished in double figures and six recorded 9+.

Making his presence felt in no uncertain terms and earning extensive praise from his head coach was sophomore guard Kristian Gonzalez, who shot 8-14 (57%) and 3-7 (43%) from beyond the arc for 20 points and drew a foul on a clutch layup with under a minute remaining to effectively put the game away. 

Julius Mims was efficient in the paint, finishing 7-9 (78%) to total 14 points alongside six grabs off the glass and two blocks. Jack Payne was 4-9 (44%) for 13 points, five rebounds, and five assists. Tyler Mrus was a force everywhere on the court, recording twelve points and six rebounds, and Kolton Mitchell finished 5-10 (50%) for eleven of his own. 

A stat not to be overlooked was that the Vandals simply did not miss at the free throw line, finishing a perfect 15-15, including Tyler Linhardt banking all six of his attempts and Jack Payne going 4-4. 

The emotions were high, but the turnaround is going to be quick, as the Vandals are hitting the road for Missoula, Montana for a rematch with the Montana Grizzlies on Monday, Jan. 20, at 6:00 PM PST