CALDWELL, Idaho - The College of Idaho closed out 2025 in dramatic fashion Tuesday night, riding a series of momentum swings to a 76-71 victory over cross-border rival Eastern Oregon in a rare weekday meeting between travel partners.
The Yotes set the tone early, playing with pace and defensive energy to build a 33-28 halftime lead. Eastern Oregon struggled to find consistency in the opening half, shooting under 30 percent from the field, but stayed within reach behind offensive rebounds and late buckets before the break.
The momentum shifted quickly after halftime. Eastern Oregon caught fire offensively, shooting better than 50 percent in the second half and knocking down 13 three-pointers on the night. James Bodily led the Mountaineers with a game-high 24 points, sparking a comeback that turned the game into a back-and-forth battle down the stretch.
Each Eastern Oregon run was answered by the Yotes. Dougie Peoples paced College of Idaho with 22 points, connecting on four three-pointers and delivering timely baskets whenever the Mountaineers threatened to take control. Rey Johnston added 17 points and strong interior play, while Conner Sheets came off the bench to provide a spark, drilling five three-pointers on six attempts.
Eastern Oregon trimmed the deficit to a single possession multiple times in the final minutes, but College of Idaho stayed composed. The Yotes moved the ball efficiently, finished a perfect 8-for-8 at the free-throw line and came up with key defensive stops late to seal the rivalry win.
The victory sends the Yotes into the new year with momentum, closing the calendar with a hard-fought win in a thriller that delivered the intensity and drama expected from a cross-border rivalry.
