- SOU Mens Basketball. (The Siskiyou/Robbie Wilkins)
ASHLAND, Ore. – Northwest Christian University held on to their early established lead for a 86-74 win over Southern Oregon University in the men’s basketball quarter semifinals of the Cascade Conference championships Wednesday night at Bob Riehm Arena. The sixth seeded NCU Beacons started off on top and kept it that way for their upsetting victory over the third seeded Raiders.
NCU was close to impeccable with shot percentage, especially at the line. Coleton Baker scored 24 points and made all six free throws for the Beacons. Javonte Byrd and Spencer Coleman respectfully added 17 each to the board, which helped NCU keep the lead between 5 and 13 points all night.
The Raiders fought back in a big way, outscoring the Beacons inside. Eric Thompson had 18 points and 5 rebounds, and David Sturner followed closely with 17. Tim Weber got on the board with 11 and Kyle Tedder with 12.
The students and community showed up with enthusiasm and fought right alongside the Raiders to the end. Half-time excitement included an amazing half court contest shot made by SOU’s very own Cam Williams. The stands, full of red and black, emanated SOU pride with high energy and high hopes. Junior Jade Boufford was impressed with the season overall.
“It was great that we won more than we lost. I’m sad to see the seniors go! There was high energy tonight. It was a very faced-paced, good game and they put in their best effort”, Boufford said.
The Raiders last option for another game this season is a chance of an at-large bid to the NAIA Championships, which will be announced March 6. SOU sits at 11-8 in the CCC and 22-9 overall.
