The University of Montana Lady Griz basketball team is gearing up for an exciting start to their regular season as they prepare to face off against the formidable Gonzaga Bulldogs. The two teams will clash in Spokane at Gonzaga’s McCarthey Athletic Center, where the Bulldogs boast an impressive 36-game winning streak.
Montana has faced Gonzaga multiple times in the past, with their last victory against the Bulldogs dating back to the 2006-07 season. Despite the challenging history, the Lady Griz are optimistic about their upcoming game and are looking to kick off the season on a high note.
Last season, Montana had a successful run with a 23-10 record and secured a spot in the WNIT tournament. The team’s strength lies in their sharpshooting from beyond the arc, setting a program record for 3-pointers made. However, this season sees the Lady Griz welcoming new faces to the roster, including three true freshmen and three transfers, who are expected to make significant contributions on the court.
Senior Dani Bartsch, a standout player for Montana, is poised to lead the team this season. Bartsch was named to the second-team All-Big Sky last season and set a new program record for rebounds in a season. Her exceptional performance on both ends of the court has solidified her as a key player for the Lady Griz.
On the other side, the Gonzaga Bulldogs are coming off a strong season, finishing with a 32-4 record and a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA tournament. Led by standout forward Yvonne Ejim, who was named to the Naismith Trophy Women’s College Player of the Year Watch List, Gonzaga is expected to be a tough competitor for Montana.
As the Lady Griz prepare to face off against Gonzaga, they are focused on showcasing their skills and building on their momentum from last season. With a mix of experienced returners and new additions to the team, Montana is ready to take on the challenge and make a statement in their season opener.
Stay tuned for an action-packed game as the Lady Griz go head-to-head with the Bulldogs in what promises to be an exciting matchup between two talented teams. The game will be live-streamed on ESPN+ and broadcasted on KGRZ 1450 AM/92.7 FM, so be sure to tune in and cheer on the Lady Griz as they begin their quest for a successful season.
