Boise State Defeated Idaho in Exhibition Game
The Broncos secured an 82-72 victory over the University of Idaho at Idaho Central Arena.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Basketball
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Boise State basketball earned an 82-72 exhibition win against the University of Idaho on October 14, 2026. The Broncos relied on aggressive defense to force 16 first-half turnovers despite initial shooting struggles.
Why it matters
The exhibition served as a critical testing ground for the Boise State coaching staff to evaluate new player combinations and team chemistry. These early assessments are essential as the team prepares for the upcoming season schedule.
Boise State forced 16 turnovers in the first half while shooting 14% from beyond the arc. Julian Bowie led the effort with 21 points, while Dovydas Butka added a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds.
The players
Julian Bowie
Julian Bowie is a standout player for the Boise State basketball program who contributed 21 points in the exhibition win.
Dovydas Butka
Dovydas Butka is a 6-foot-9 player who provided a double-double performance during the team's matchup against Idaho.
Boise State
Boise State is a public university that competes in Division I basketball and hosts home games at Idaho Central Arena.
University of Idaho
The University of Idaho is a state institution whose men's basketball program earned a bid to the 2026 NCAA tournament.
The details
The Broncos trailed early, facing a four-point deficit seven minutes into the game before taking a slim lead into the locker room. In the second half, the offense shifted its focus to scoring in the paint to secure the win.
Timeline
The exhibition game took place on October 14, 2026.
Boise State will host Washington for another exhibition game on October 17, 2026.
The University of Idaho previously secured a March Madness bid in March 2026.
Season Trajectory
This early exhibition win provides a foundational look at how Boise State will integrate its roster following the University of Idaho's 2026 NCAA tournament appearance. The game helps establish the competitive rhythm needed to contend for post-season spots later in the year.
Aginaldo Neto finished the game with 14 points, six rebounds, six assists, five steals, and two blocks. The coaching staff will use this defensive output to dictate rotation minutes for the upcoming exhibition against Washington.
The takeaway
The game demonstrated that Boise State is prioritizing aggressive defensive pressure to overcome early-season shooting inconsistencies. Fans can expect continued experimentation with offensive sets during the team's next exhibition game.
What happens next
Boise State is scheduled to host Washington for an exhibition game on October 17, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on the team's progress, visit Boise Basketball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Arbiter.
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