Montana Wins Big Sky’s Berth

Big Sky/Big West

Bob Olson gave Montana the lead with two free throws with 44 seconds left, and Chris Spoja’s steal led to the final basket as the Grizzlies came from behind to beat surprising Cal State Northridge 82-79 and win the Big Sky Conference tournament at Flagstaff, Ariz.

The victory gave Montana (21-10) its fourth NCAA Tournament berth. The Grizzlies also went in 1975, 1991 and 1992.

Olson’s foul shots produced an 80-79 Montana lead. Then Spoja stole the ball from Keith Higgins and passed to J.R. Camel for a 10-foot jumper in the lane that sealed the victory with 22 seconds remaining.

Big West

Pacific 71, Utah State 54

At Reno, Nev., Rayne Mahaffey scored 16 points and Tim Bowman had 12 to lead the Tigers (23-5) past the Aggies (20-9) and into the conference tournament championship game.

The Tigers, seeking their first tournament championship since 1979, reached the Big West final for the third time.

Nevada 80, New Mexico State 63

Faron Hand scored 20 points and Jimmy Carroll had 18, all on 3-pointers, as the Wolf Pack (20-8) stopped the Aggies (19-9) to reach the championship game on their home court.