By Gabriel Luis (@gabelun):
San Jose State (2-3) played a low-scoring game against Idaho State (0-4) but was able to win 62-54 on Wednesday night.
The Spartans entered the match having lost to St. Mary’s and were pushing for a victory as they have a four-game road trip ahead.
“Our starting lineup struggled in the beginning and had to use the bench to come off and to get us going energywise,” said sophomore guard Isaiah Nichols.
Defense seemed to keep the Spartans in the game, as they were able to get 44 rebounds and eight steals and finished the first half allowing just 15 points to the Bengals.
“Our defense was great,” said head coach Jean Prioleau. “As long as we are guarding and defending and rebounding, things will take care of itself.”
Both teams had their share of shooting struggles as SJSU shot about 40 percent and ISU 32 percent.
Junior Jaycee Hillsman dominated the Bengals as he managed to bag two three-pointers and an and-one in the first half, scoring almost half the points for the Spartans in the opening frame.
“We have many pieces that are doing things the right way,” Hillsman said.
Hillsman also did a good job for San Jose State on the defensive side as he got two steals and managed to force a few turnovers during the game.
SJSU was under pressure by the Bengals and forward Jared Stutzman as he scored 12 on the Spartans.
“Hats-off to them, they’re a good team. They battled back,” Hillsman said.
Nichols went off in the second half, finishing with 14 points on 5/7 shooting and seven rebounds which played a key role in keeping the Bengals down.
“Nichols was outstanding,” Prioleau said. “He is rebounding the ball at an unbelievable rate.”
The Spartans created their biggest gap of the game in the second half, leading by 13 at one point which was too much for Idaho State.
“With a young team, it’s good to get a win especially with the long road trip ahead of us,” Hillsman said.
Prioleau also believes the victory will give the team confidence for the next few games as it will take on Bowling Green on Wednesday Nov. 29. at 4 p.m.