CALDWELL, Idaho – The No. 1-seeded College of Idaho men's basketball team is set for a highly anticipated rematch in the NAIA National Championship Round of 16, facing No. 4-seeded Langston (Okla.) on Thursday at 5 p.m. CT (4 p.m. MT) in Kansas City, Missouri. The Yotes, who have been dominant all season, will look to avenge last year's tournament loss to the Lions and continue their pursuit of a national title.
College of Idaho enters the matchup with a stellar 31-2 record, riding the momentum of a team that ranks among the best in the NAIA on both ends of the floor. The Yotes have overwhelmed opponents with an offense that averages 85.8 points per game while shooting 48.3% from the field and 35.6% from three-point range. Senior Johnny Radford has led the charge, averaging 14.3 points per game on 42.1% three-point shooting, while Senior forward Drew Wyman adds 12.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per contest. Samaje Morgan runs the offense efficiently, contributing 11.0 points and 4.6 assists per game, and Straton Rogers controls the boards, pulling down 8.2 rebounds per game.
What has set the Yotes apart all season, however, is their defense. They allow just 63.1 points per game, and hold opponents to 38.1% shooting from the field. Their ability to create havoc without fouling has been a key to success, as they force nearly 13 turnovers per game while committing only 8.5 themselves. That discipline will be tested against a Langston squad that thrives on pressuring opponents.
The Lions (26-7) enter the game on a eight-game winning streak after taking down Saint Mary (Kan.) 64-51 and Central Baptist (Ark.) 81-76 in overtime in the opening rounds. Guard Bryce Monroe leads the way, averaging 14.4 points per game, while forward Joshua Smith provides inside scoring at 9.8 points per contest on 57.1% shooting. The Lions pride themselves on their defense, allowing just 62.6 points per game, a number that closely rivals the Yotes. They also create plenty of opportunities off mistakes, averaging 6.4 steals per game, with their aggressive play leading to over 11 forced turnovers per game.
With two of the top defensive teams in the tournament going head-to-head, the game could come down to rebounding and perimeter shooting. College of Idaho holds a +7.9 rebounding margin, ranking among the best in the country, while Langston is not far behind at +7.7. The Yotes also have a significant edge in three-point shooting, averaging 9.2 made threes per game compared to Langston's 5.9, meaning a strong shooting night could tip the scales in their favor. Conversely, taking care of the basketball will be crucial, as Langston thrives on turning defense into offense.
Adding to the excitement, Yotes fans can come together to watch the game at Mesquite Creek Outfitters in downtown Caldwell, where an official watch party will be held. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. MT, with tip-off set for 4 p.m. MT.
As the Yotes take the floor in Kansas City, they'll be looking to not only advance to the NAIA Quarterfinals but also settle the score from last season. With both teams excelling defensively and plenty of talent on display, this matchup is shaping up to be one of the most intense battles of the tournament.
