20 years ago, Larry Krystkowiak's Montana Grizzlies made history by defeating Nevada 87-79 in the NCAA Tournament, marking the first time a Big Sky team won a tournament game since 1985. With experienced players and a collaborative team spirit, they realized a magical run that culminated in their induction into the Grizzly Sports Hall of Fame. Despite their exit in the second round against Boston College, the memory of that victory continues to resonate, highlighting a significant achievement in Montana's basketball legacy.

By the Numbers
  • Montana scored 79 points in the second half against Nevada, shooting 23-of-27 from the free throw line (.852).
  • The Grizzlies' 12 seed in the NCAA Tournament remains the highest for a Big Sky team since 1985.
State of Play
  • The 2006 Montana Grizzlies are celebrated as the last Big Sky team to win an NCAA tournament game.
  • This season marked the 20th anniversary of their historic win, celebrated with a reunion and Hall of Fame induction.
What's Next

The NCAA Tournament is set to commence soon, with anticipation building around the 2026 edition and hopeful underdog stories in the making. As the current tournament unfolds, the legacy of the 2006 Grizzlies may inspire future mid-major teams to pursue similar success against the odds.

Bottom Line

The Montana Grizzlies' victory 20 years ago stands as a powerful reminder of what teamwork and resilience can achieve in sports, an iconic moment that continues to inspire future generations of athletes in the pursuit of excellence.