Sagan Osborne – Dickinson State Sports & Marketing Information Director
Helena, Mont. - Dickinson State picked up a big non-conference win in a high-scoring battle against Carroll College on Saturday afternoon, posting a 90-81 win in Helena. The Blue Hawks showcased a balanced attack and consistent shooting to improve to 4-5 on the season.
Led by Trey Stevens' 26 points, Dickinson State fired at a 50.8 percent clip from the field, including 38.2 percent from beyond the arc. Stevens drained seven three-pointers, delivering timely baskets to hold off Carroll's second-half push. The Blue Hawks excelled from the free-throw line as well, converting 17 of their 22 attempts.
The first half saw Dickinson State gain control with sharp perimeter shooting and strong rebounding. Stevens, Kose Egbule, and Cordell Stinson led the offensive charge, giving the Blue Hawks a 44-33 lead at halftime. Despite Carroll's early rebounding advantage, Dickinson State's ball movement and efficiency from long range neutralized the Saints' interior presence.
Carroll fought back in the second half, powered by Derek Kramer's double-double of 18 points and 13 rebounds. The Saints improved their shooting to 56.3 percent after the break, but their 20.8 percent effort from three-point range hindered their ability to close the gap. Isaiah Crane and Isaiah Moore combined for 33 points, but Dickinson State's defensive intensity down the stretch kept the home team at bay.
The Blue Hawks' bench proved pivotal, outscoring Carroll's reserves 36-13. Aidan Fishell and Stinson added critical contributions, tallying 14 and 12 points, respectively. Fishell also converted key free throws in the final minutes to maintain Dickinson State's advantage.
Rebounding was a tightly contested area, with Carroll holding a slight 36-33 edge. However, the Blue Hawks capitalized on turnovers, scoring 13 points off the Saints' 11 miscues. Stevens' quick hands and Stinson's court awareness disrupted Carroll's rhythm, creating fast-break opportunities and stifling the Saints' momentum.