Sides leads K-State past Montana in 67-62 Victory

Photo courtesy of Collegian Media Group

K-State women’s basketball held off a late challenge from Montana to secure a 67-62 win Tuesday morning at Bramlage Coliseum, making the Wildcats 4-0 to open the 2026-2027 season. 

Senior guard Taryn Sides led K-State with 18 points, helping the Wildcats continue their four-game winning streak. The victory came during the team’s annual Education Day game, which brought hundreds of elementary school students to Bramlage Coliseum. The kids enjoyed fun games during time outs and the “6-7 cam” at the end of the game. 

K-State entered the matchup after three consecutive home victories against Wichita State, Southern Indiana and Texas-Rio Grande Valley. The Wildcats led by 9 points going into the second half, allowing the Lady Griz to get within 2 in the fourth quarter. 

Sides provided offensive leadership for K-State, while freshman forward Shaila Nde contributed eight rebounds to help the Wildcats on the boards. Sophomore guard Gina Garcia added six assists, while also facilitating the K-State offense.

Montana challenged the Wildcats throughout the contest, but K-State managed to maintain its advantage and finish with a 5-point victory. 

The Wildcat’s win continued an impressive defensive start to the season. K-State had allowed an average of 42.3 points through its first three games, including holding UTRGV to 39 points in their previous game.

The matchup marked the fourth meeting between K-State and Montana, and the first since 1989. K-State entered the game leading the all-time series 2-1. 

With the victory, the Wildcats close their four-game homestand undefeated. K-State now travels to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to face Minnesota at 1:00 p.m. on Nov. 14.