In a match-up that many expected to be a lopsided affair, the Idaho State Bengals delivered a resounding blowout against the NAIA-member Embry-Riddle (AZ) Eagles. Led by Connor Hollenbeck's dominating 18-point performance, the Bengals demonstrated their superior skill and prowess, coasting to a 97-46 victory on Monday.
Although the NAIA-member school had its fair share of chances, Embry-Riddle's Eagles simply couldn't withstand the full-court press and onslaught of three-pointers launched by Idaho State. Thanks to the unwavering defensive presence of the Bengals, Christian Wells' eight points served as the highlight of the evening for the Eagles.
A key takeaway from the contest is that the gulf between NCAA and NAIA institutions appears to be far more insurmountable than many initially expected. As the new NCAA season undergoes its initial trials, such uneven contest might spring some crucial challenges for incoming NAIA prospects.
With this win, the Idaho State Bengals secured their third victory of the season, securing a 3-4 standing in the current rankings. Though Hollenbeck and the Bengals' commanding performance may boast profound takeaways for many NCAA analysts, every road match, much more matches against unforgiving opponents still loom in the horizon and could influence whether they indeed finish their season on a high note.
On the other hand, in light of this disappointing loss, it's interesting to observe how Embry-Riddle (AZ) bounces back in subsequent matches and how the Eagles devise an approach to respond stronger and bridge this evident skill disparity that the NCAA-NAIA divide can possibly carry.