MCMINNVILLE, Ore. – Kyle Roach scored 18 of his 21 points in the second half to help the Whitworth Pirates defeat the Linfield Wildcats 63-55 in a Northwest Conference game Saturday at Ted Wilson Gymnasium.
Northwest conference implications
Whitworth remained in second place in the Northwest Conference standings, improving to 15-2 and 7-1 in the NWC. Linfield, 11-5 overall, dropped into a tie for third place with Puget Sound, both at 5-3 at the halfway point of the schedule.
How it played out
There were eight lead changes in the first half alone, though Whitworth led for more than 80 percent of that time. Forcing 10 turnovers, the Pirates pulled in front by seven points to end the opening half.
Three minutes into the second half, Linfield's
Tyler Watts made a three-pointer that brought the Wildcats within two points. Four minutes later,
Jordan Clark converted a pair of free throws that gave the 'Cats the lead with just over 12 minutes remaining. Linfield briefly took a three-point advantage before Whitworth retook the lead, this time for dood. With under two minutes to go,
Riley Bruil netted two three-pointers less than 60 seconds apart to bring the game within four points. But it wasn't enough, as Whitworth held off the Wildcats' late surge to secure the victory.
Linfield leaders
Clark and Bruil teamed up to score a combined 26 points to lead the Wildcats. Clark had 12 points and five rebounds. Bruil delivered for the 'Cats with 14 points and three rebounds. Watts added six points, seven rebounds, and
Dempsey Roggenbuck scored six points, while also grabbing three rebounds, recording an assist and a steal.
Whitworth by the numbers
Whitworth spread the court with three players scoring double digits. Roach led the Pirates with his 21 points, three rebounds, two assists and steal. Jared Christy grabbed 13 rebounds and recorded 13 points. Ben College had 10 points and three rebounds. Ben Bishop recorded six points, while Garrett Hull added eight points, four rebounds and two steals.
Next
Linfield remains at home for an NWC matchup against the Pacific Boxers Friday at 8 p.m. inside Ted Wilson Gymnasium.