BOISE, Idaho — Bragging rights are back on the line as the Boise State Broncos and Idaho Vandals face off on the basketball court. Friday's matchup was the 90th time these two Gem State teams have met, and the first time in over 10 years. Boise State won 89-83.
The in-state rivals have met 89 times before Friday, over the last 54 years. Boise State Head Coach Leon Rice, who’s been part of several of those games, said this exhibition game gave his coaching staff a valuable look at the full roster.
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“There’s a lot of things we need to work on and that’s what this game is for,” Rice said. “The evaluation of our program, our team and what we have as strengths and weaknesses.”
Ahead of the match up, Boise State forward Pearson Carmichael said he’s excited to experience the rivalry for the first time.
“Idaho’s a great team, so it will be good for us to have some good competition too. I can say V’s down… I’ve just heard [this] is a rivalry and I’m glad we’re bringing it back,” Carmichael said.
Hear from Boise State ahead of Friday night's match-up
Both teams played an extra 10 minutes after the 40 minutes of regulation to help players shake off preseason jitters. Idaho won the 10 minute scrimmage.
Coaches hoped for a strong turnout from Bronco Nation and Vandals fans alike, saying it could help determine whether the rivalry returns to the regular schedule in the coming years.
Bronco nation and Vandals fans showed up Friday night, filling the stands, cheering on their favorite Idaho team.
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