Black Hills State opened its season with an 82-38 exhibition loss to Montana State, the reigning Big Sky champion. The Yellow Jackets showed defensive grit but struggled to score, making just one 3-pointer in 21 attempts. Kenleigh Graham led BHSU with 10 points; the exhibition does not affect the team’s record.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Montana State 82, Black Hills State 38.
  • BHSU 3-point shooting: 1-for-21.
  • Kenleigh Graham: 10 points and 6 rebounds.
  • Jaisie Janssen: 8 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals.
  • Attendance: 5,426.
Yes, But

Montana State pulled away with a 21-7 fourth quarter, but BHSU’s defense held the Bobcats to 15 points in the third. The Yellow Jackets’ perimeter shooting remained the clearest obstacle to keeping the game competitive.

What’s Next

After a week off, BHSU heads to Texas for the Lone Star Challenge, opening against St. Edward’s in Austin on Nov. 13 before playing St. Mary’s in San Antonio on Nov. 14.

Bottom Line

The exhibition exposed a major scoring challenge, but BHSU has a quick opportunity to respond when regular-season play begins next week.