The Idaho Vandals put on a show in their home opener against the Cal Poly Mustangs on Saturday, winning 85-70. Idaho was led by senior guard Trevon Allen, who scored a game-high 24 points. Senior forward Scott Blakney was also instrumental in the victory, adding 17 points and 8 rebounds. But it was junior guard Brayon Minnis who stole the show, scoring 18 points off the bench to help the Vandals secure the win.
Minnis was a spark plug for Idaho, coming off the bench and providing instant offense. He hit four three-pointers and was 8-of-11 from the field overall. His 18 points were a career-high and his ability to stretch the floor opened up driving lanes for Allen and Blakney.
The Vandals were also impressive on the defensive end, holding Cal Poly to just 33% shooting from the field and forcing 16 turnovers. Idaho was able to get out in transition and score easy buckets, which helped them build a double-digit lead early in the second half.
The win was a huge confidence booster for Idaho, who had lost their previous two games. With Minnis providing a spark off the bench, the Vandals look poised to make some noise in the Big Sky Conference this season. They’ll look to keep the momentum going when they take on UC Davis on Wednesday.
