Portland State Vikings Hold Off Idaho Vandals 77-67 Behind Keyon Kensie Jr.'s 24 Points

The Idaho Vandals, who came into the game with a 14-13 record, struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, scoring just 27 points, while Portland State capitalized on their opportunities, taking a 41-27 lead into the break, with Keyon Kensie Jr. already having scored 14 points. The Vikings' defense was stifling, holding Idaho to just 32% shooting from the field in the first half, including 2-10 from three-point range. Portland State, on the other hand, shot 46% from the field, including 5-12 from beyond the arc, with Jaylin Henderson contributing 10 points and 5 assists in the first half. The Vikings' 14-point lead at halftime was a reflection of their balanced attack, with three players scoring in double figures, including Tre-Vaughn Minott, who had 8 points and 6 rebounds.

As the second half got underway, Idaho began to find their footing, scoring 40 points, including 12 from Isaiah Brickner, who finished with 22 points and 5 rebounds. However, Portland State's offense continued to click, with Keyon Kensie Jr. adding 10 more points to his total, and Jaylin Henderson dishing out 5 more assists, finishing with 20 points and 10 assists. The Vikings' ability to maintain their lead was a result of their strong rebounding, outboarding Idaho 38-32, including 12 rebounds from Tre-Vaughn Minott, who also scored 14 points. With 5 minutes remaining, Portland State held a 12-point lead, and despite a late surge from Idaho, they were able to hold on for the 77-67 victory, their 18th win of the season, and fifth in their last six games.

The star performers for Portland State were undoubtedly Keyon Kensie Jr. and Jaylin Henderson, who combined for 44 points and 16 assists. However, it was their ability to perform under pressure that made the difference, with Keyon Kensie Jr. hitting several big shots late, including a three-pointer with 2 minutes remaining to put the game out of reach. On the other hand, Idaho's Isaiah Brickner had a strong game, but his supporting cast was unable to provide enough firepower to overcome the deficit. Jackson Rasmussen, who scored 18 points, was one of the few bright spots for Idaho, but his efforts were not enough to overcome the Vikings' balanced attack.

The CHD Scout prediction of a 5.1-point victory for Portland State was spot on, as they ultimately won by 10 points.

The prediction was accurate because Portland State's defense was able to contain Idaho's offense, holding them to just 67 points, 9 points below their season average. The Vikings' ability to limit Idaho's three-point shooting, holding them to just 6-23 from beyond the arc, was a key factor in their victory. Additionally, Portland State's rebounding edge, outboarding Idaho by 6, allowed them to control the tempo of the game and limit Idaho's second-chance opportunities.

Portland State's recent form has been impressive, with 4 wins in their last 5 games, including victories over Northern Arizona, Sacramento State, Idaho State, and Montana State. Their average margin of victory over this stretch has been 6 points, with their only loss coming against Northern Colorado. Idaho, on the other hand, has struggled, with just 2 wins in their last 5 games, including losses to Weber State, Montana, and Montana State. Their average margin of defeat over this stretch has been 5.4 points, with their only wins coming against Idaho State and Northern Arizona.

The Vikings' victory over Idaho was a Quadrant 4 win, which, while not particularly impressive, still helps to bolster their resume.

The win improves Portland State's NET ranking to 131, and while they are still a long shot to make the tournament, they are at least keeping themselves in the conversation. Idaho, on the other hand, saw their NET ranking drop to 166, making their tournament hopes even more unlikely. The loss was a Quadrant 2 game for Idaho, which would have been a significant boost to their resume had they been able to pull off the upset. As it stands, they must win out and get some help from other teams in order to have any chance of making the tournament.

In terms of what this game means for March, it's clear that Portland State is a team on the rise, with a strong defense and balanced offense. While they may not be a tournament lock just yet, they are certainly making a case for themselves. Idaho, on the other hand, must regroup and refocus if they hope to make a push for the tournament. With just a few games remaining, every contest is crucial, and the Vandals must bring their A-game if they hope to sneak into the bracket. The Vikings' 18-7 record, combined with their strong recent form, makes them a team to watch in the coming weeks, as they look to build on their momentum and make a push for the tournament.