Sagan Osborne – Dickinson State Sports and Marketing Information Director

Valley City, N.D. – Dickinson State secured a crucial road victory Saturday afternoon, defeating Valley City State 90-85 in North Star Athletic Association play.

The Blue Hawks (8-15, 3-9 NSAA) shot 50 percent from the field and 46.4 percent from three-point range, using a balanced offensive effort to hold off the Vikings (13-11, 5-7 NSAA). Dickinson State built an early lead, scoring 24 points in the opening quarter and taking a 46-38 advantage into halftime.

Kayden Steele led the Blue Hawks with 23 points on 9-of-18 shooting, including five three-pointers. Samantha Oase dominated inside, finishing with 21 points and five rebounds on 9-of-12 shooting. Anhelica Shanrock contributed 15 points, hitting three three-pointers, while Katherine Fox added 11 points and five rebounds.

Valley City State kept pace behind Ellie Braaten's 22-point effort, but the Vikings struggled to keep up with Dickinson State's efficient perimeter shooting. JayCee Richter scored 20 points, and Ashlyn Diemert chipped in 15 for the home team.

The Blue Hawks maintained control despite a third-quarter push from VCSU. Dickinson State's defense forced 10 turnovers while securing a 36-27 rebounding advantage. The Vikings made another late push in the fourth quarter, but key baskets from Steele and Oase in the final minutes preserved the win.