The Dustdevils clinched their biggest victory of the season, according to Coach Curtis Condie, in a 59-58 win over Montana-State Billings Yellowjackets at home Wednesday, Dec. 6.
“This win was big, but it’s important that they don’t think their job is done,” Condie said as any hint of a smile from the win disappeared.
Sophomore guard Chris Swann led the team in scoring with 17 points.
“His performance was great offensively, but defensively he needs work,” Condie said of Swann’s play.
Condie expected MSB to “run up and down the floor and beat us,” but once the Yellow Jackets lost their first-half lead Condie knew they could win with good defense, solid rebounding, and control of the ball, he said.
A Dustdevil defense that allowed MSB to convert nearly 50 percent of its shots stiffened when it mattered, allowing only 21 second-half points.
With 1:15 remaining, Leon Jacob, junior guard, came up with a crucial block on a three-point attempt that may have provided the Yellowjackets with a two-point lead going into the final minute of the game.
The raucous crowd of 660 provided a boost for their defense late in the game.
“This was a result of tremendous coaching by Condie. He’s the best thing that’s happened to us. He’s instilled discipline in his players in the game and in life,” said Interim Athletics Director Rafael Romo.