CALDWELL, Idaho – The College of Idaho men's basketball team is headed back to the NAIA Final Site for the fourth consecutive season after a 75-65 victory over Friends University in the NAIA Second Round on Saturday night at J.A. Albertson Activities Center.
The No. 1-ranked Yotes (31-2) came out firing, building a commanding 41-22 halftime lead behind efficient offense and strong defensive play. Despite a second-half push from Friends (24-8), College of Idaho never relinquished control, securing the regional championship and a place among the final 16 teams in the nation.
Radford and Robinett Lead the Charge
Senior Johnny Radford led the Yotes with 17 points, shooting 5-of-11 from the field and 3-of-9 from three-point range while sinking all four of his free throws. Fellow senior Tyler Robinett was dominant inside, scoring 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting and adding five rebounds and two blocks.
Samaje Morgan provided a steady presence at point guard, dishing out a game-high seven assists to go along with 12 points. Straton Rogers was key on the glass with a team-high eight rebounds while adding six points, four assists, and three steals. Drew Wyman contributed 10 points and two rebounds, helping the Yotes maintain their offensive rhythm.
Defense and Ball Movement Propel Yotes
College of Idaho's defensive effort stifled the Falcons early, holding them to just 33.3% shooting in the first half and 40.7% overall. The Yotes' ability to force mistakes and capitalize on them proved crucial, as they turned 11 Friends turnovers into 16 points.
On the offensive end, College of Idaho showcased its signature unselfish play, recording 19 assists on 28 made field goals. The Yotes also controlled the paint, outscoring Friends 32-24 inside and maintaining their defensive intensity despite a second-half surge from the Falcons.
Next Stop: Kansas City
With the regional championship secured, the Yotes will now travel to the NAIA Final Site in Kansas City, where they will compete for a national championship. Games begin Thursday, March 20, as College of Idaho looks to continue its dominant season on the national stage.
The Yotes, who have made four straight trips to the NAIA Final Site, enter the final stretch of the tournament with momentum and a veteran squad eager to make a deep postseason run.
