Northern Arizona came into Feb. 6 needing traction in the 2025-26 season. It found it in the closing minutes, pulling away just enough to beat Idaho State 79-73 in NCAA action.
The result moved Northern Arizona to 8-15 and halted any momentum loss from a recent uneven stretch (LWWLL). For Idaho State, now 10-13, it was a familiar finish: another close game that slipped away, extending the Bengals’ form line to LLLLLL.
Game flow: Northern Arizona’s late control
With no quarter-by-quarter breakdown available, the final margins tell the story: Northern Arizona won the game in the details late, creating separation in a six-point decision. Idaho State kept contact through the night, but couldn’t flip the final possessions into a swing.
What it means
Northern Arizona: a stabilizing win
At 8-15, Northern Arizona needed a result that travels—one that holds up away from home and reinforces execution under pressure. Winning a 79-73 game suggests the Lumberjacks were able to manage the final stretch well enough to close, a key step for a team searching for consistency.
Idaho State: urgency rises as losses stack
Idaho State’s record (10-13) still leaves room to steady the season, but the immediate trend line is the issue. Six straight losses changes the math and the mindset; the Bengals now need answers quickly, especially in late-game environments where one or two empty trips can decide outcomes like this.
Score
Northern Arizona 79, Idaho State 73 — Feb. 6, 2026 (Venue: TBD)