Williston State Women’s Basketball Triumphs Over Bismarck State in High-Scoring Thriller
Williston, ND – In an electrifying showdown at Williston State College, the Tetons women's basketball team edged out Bismarck State 88-81 in a nail-biting contest that showcased grit, strategy, and individual brilliance.
Bismarck State came out firing from long range, sinking an impressive 15 three-pointers to keep the game within reach throughout. However, it wasn't enough to topple the depth and resilience of a determined Williston State squad.
The Tetons faced a pivotal challenge late in the third quarter as foul trouble loomed large. Three starters, including standout forward Allison Kunze, found themselves saddled with four fouls each. Head coach Bill Triplett, showing his tactical acumen, shuffled his lineup to perfection, crafting a combination that delivered just enough to hold off the persistent Mystics.
Kunze, despite her foul woes, delivered a masterclass performance. The forward was virtually unstoppable, scoring 28 points on an ultra-efficient 9-of-11 shooting from the field and a near-perfect 10-of-11 from the charity stripe. She also dominated the glass, pulling down 15 rebounds to complete a monstrous double-double.
Jersey Berg also shined for the Tetons, contributing 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists. Her all-around performance proved crucial in keeping the offense flowing and maintaining defensive stability during key stretches.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with Bismarck State's sharpshooters keeping the crowd on edge. The Mystics' three-point barrage created several tense moments, but Williston State's defensive adjustments and relentless rebounding ultimately carried the day.
"Three starters had four fouls on them late," Coach Triplett said. "Every player stepped up when we needed them most. We faced adversity tonight, but the team stayed composed and fought hard until the end."
With standout performances like those from Kunze and Berg, combined with the team's depth and resilience, the Tetons have shown they are a force to be reckoned with.