Box Score

Postgame Notes

Moscow, Idaho – Texas State battled back from a 17-point deficit to grab the win tonight on the road at Idaho. Backed by a stellar performance by Joel Wright, the Bobcats defeated the Vandals, 78-73, tonight at Cowan Spectrum.

Wright had an impressive all-around game as the junior led Texas State with a career-high 37 points (12-for-20 FG, 12-of-15 FT), in addition to six rebounds, five assists and five steals. Phil Hawkins added 16 points, and Reid Koenen chipped in 10 points. The Bobcats shot 46.7 percent from the floor, and recorded a season-low eight turnovers.

“We got down by 17 points, and our guys didn't quit,” said head coach Doug Davalos. “The guys kept their head above water, and this is what happens when you just don't give up. A win is a win, but tonight showed a lot of character.”

Texas State (6-14, 2-6 WAC) cut the Vandals lead to one with 14:38 to go after a three-point play by Wright. A few plays later, Wright dished the ball to Hawkins, who drained a three-pointer from the corner to give the game its first tie at 47-All.

The Bobcats got their first lead of the game when Vonn Jones found Hawkins open for the trey in the corner with three minutes remaining. Texas State led by as many as six points with 47 seconds remaining, and the Vandals just couldn't find a way to stop the Bobcats charge. The win tonight is the second straight for Texas State on the road.

Idaho (7-11, 3-5 WAC) took an early lead on Texas State after jumping out to a 6-0 edge to start the game. The Vandals were able to go up by as many as 17 points in the half, but Wright spear headed an 11-0 run for the Cats to cut into the lead. Texas State blindsided the Vandals by outscoring the home team, 19-6 in the final seven and a half minutes to enter the locker room down by four at the half.

Idaho was led by Kyle Barone who had a solid 27 points (8-for-10 FG, 11-of-12 FT) and 16 rebounds. Stephen Madison added 14 points for the Vandals, while Mike McChristian chipped in 13 points. Idaho shot 48.0 percent from the floor as a team, but turned the ball over 18 times.

The Bobcats will travel to Seattle next for action versus the Redhawks. Tip-off at Key Arena is slated for 9 p.m. CT.