KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — Southern Oregon University overcame a three-point halftime deficit to defeat Linfield University 82-68 on Saturday afternoon at Danny Miles Court. The Raiders outscored the Wildcats 45-28 in the second half to secure the victory.
Linfield led 40-37 at halftime, but Southern Oregon's offensive surge in the second half proved decisive. The Raiders shot 56.3% from the field in the final 20 minutes, compared to Linfield's 35.7%.
Mason Whittaker led Southern Oregon with 12 points, including two three-pointers, and added four rebounds in 19 minutes of play. Bryce Dyer contributed 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Elijah Jackson added eight points. Joe Juahala poured in nine more points, six of which came in the first half.
Linfield's offense featured
Josh Ryan with 12 points and
Cade Collins with 11.
Cayden Lowenbach remained a positive presence in the post, recording eight points to go along with seven rebounds. Freshman
Zach Luz provided a spark off the bench, netting nine points on 4-of-7 shooting.
Max Juhala added another six points in his second game played this season.
The Wildcats fought hard throughout the game but struggled to keep pace in the final 20 minutes. After a tight first half, Southern Oregon's shooting efficiency and aggressive defense led to an 18-point lead with just under four minutes left. A few late baskets from Linfield narrowed the final margin to 82-68.
Linfield was out-rebounded 42-29, with Southern Oregon grabbing 15 offensive rebounds, contributing to 22 second-chance points. The Wildcats had just eight second-chance points.
NEXT
Linfield prepares for its first home game of the season on Tuesday, November 26 in Ted Wilson Gymnasium against Redlands at 7 p.m.