Montana Tech staged a remarkable comeback, defeating Dakota State 78-68 in a Frontier Conference battle on February 14, 2026. After trailing at halftime, the Orediggers outscored the Trojans 30-18 in the fourth quarter, overcoming an early deficit. Dakota State, ranked No. 6, saw their 10-game winning streak come to an end, while Montana Tech improved its record to 20-4, moving up in the NAIA rankings.

By the Numbers
  • Montana Tech shot 47.7% from the field, compared to Dakota State's 34.7%.
  • Orediggers outscored DSU 42-30 in points in the paint.
Yes, But

While Montana Tech's fourth-quarter dominance was decisive, Dakota State's early performance showcased their strengths, leading the game until the final quarter. The Trojans' inability to maintain their advantage highlighted potential areas for improvement.

State of Play
  • Both teams split their meetings this season, indicating a competitive rivalry.
  • Montana Tech's win puts them in a strong position heading into the final stretch of the conference season.
What's Next

Dakota State aims to bounce back in their upcoming home game against Dickinson State. Meanwhile, Montana Tech will finish the regular season by hosting Bismarck State, looking to build momentum for postseason play.

Bottom Line

This game underscored the importance of resilience and late-game execution, with Montana Tech demonstrating their ability to adapt and capitalize when it mattered most. As both teams prepare for the postseason, focusing on maintaining peak performance will be crucial.