KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The College of Idaho is one win away from glory. In a commanding semifinal performance, the Yotes crushed Arizona Christian 72-45 on Monday night at Municipal Auditorium, securing their spot in the NAIA Men's Basketball National Championship for the second time in three seasons.
From the jump, the Yotes (34-2) were relentless, suffocating the Firestorm (30-5) with stifling defense and a relentless offensive attack. By halftime, College of Idaho had built a 38-16 lead, leaving no doubt about their dominance.
Samaje Morgan ignited the charge with 14 points and four assists, while Straton Rogers delivered a gritty 11-point, eight-rebound effort. Tyler Robinett was a force in the paint, notching a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double, and Drew Wyman added 10 points to round out the balanced attack. The Yotes punished Arizona Christian with 21 points off turnovers, outrebounded them 47-43, and refused to let them find any rhythm.
Arizona Christian was held to just 26.3% shooting from the field and 4-of-18 from deep, unable to crack the Yotes' suffocating defense. Amaechi Chukwu was the lone bright spot with 13 points, but it wasn't nearly enough to overcome College of Idaho's onslaught.
Now, the Yotes stand on the brink of history. With one game left, they'll battle for the NAIA national title Tuesday at 7 p.m. CT. One more win, and they're champions again.
The stage is set. The Yotes are ready.