Williston State Stuns North Idaho on the Road Behind Murtagh’s 28-Point Explosion
COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — Williston State College delivered one of its most complete performances of the season Saturday, going on the road and knocking off North Idaho College 85–79 in a fast-paced, high-efficiency showdown.
The Tetons shot an impressive 50% from the field and 45% from three, using balanced scoring and big-time production from their starting five to outlast a red-hot Cardinals squad that refused to go away.
Murtagh Takes Over
Sophomore guard Taylah Murtagh put on an offensive clinic, pouring in 28 points on 10-of-19 shooting, including 6-for-11 from deep. She also added 11 rebounds, securing a double-double that fueled the Tetons on both ends.
Whenever North Idaho threatened a run, Murtagh had an answer—from transition threes to strong drives that stabilized Williston State's momentum.
Berg and Heffernan Add Firepower
Alongside Murtagh's standout performance, the Tetons saw major contributions from Jersey Berg and Leila Heffernan.
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Berg attacked relentlessly, scoring 22 points on 8-of-19 shooting and adding 2 steals, including a key late-game swipe that helped seal the win.
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Heffernan was efficient in the paint, hitting 8 of her 13 attempts for 17 points and pulling down 5 rebounds.
The trio combined for 67 of the team's 85 points.
Jordan's Playmaking Shines
Point guard Dani Jordan orchestrated the offense with poise, dishing out 5 assists and grabbing 8 rebounds while committing zero fouls. Her ability to control pace and find open shooters helped Williston State maintain rhythm in a game where both teams shot the ball extremely well.
Key Contributors and Team Play
Forward Sophie Barker added 7 points, 4 assists, and 3 steals, impacting the game in all phases despite limited shot attempts. Off the bench, Emily Fixico added a pair of points and a block in six productive minutes.
Overall, Williston State tallied 20 assists on 30 made field goals, showcasing strong ball movement and execution.
North Idaho's Push Falls Short
North Idaho refused to fold, led by:
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Chloe Collin's 22 points on a blistering 7-of-9 shooting
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Diana Nelson's 15 points off the bench
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Karsyn Freeman's 16-point, 5-rebound effort
The Cardinals shot 45.3% from the floor and nearly matched Williston State from beyond the arc, but the Tetons' rebounding edge (32–27) and more efficient turnover margin (15 given up to NIC's 11) proved decisive.
A Statement Road Win
With all five starters scoring at least seven points and three cracking 17+, Williston State demonstrated the depth and balance that can make them dangerous as the season progresses.
