WALLA WALLA, Wash. – In a hectic game that saw 12 points scored in the final minute, Linfield pulled off a thrilling 63-61 victory over Whitman on Saturday afternoon, marking its first win in Walla Walla since 2010. The game was a blow-for-blow battle, with the lead changing hands eight times throughout the contest. With the win, the Wildcats improve to 7-10 on the season and 4-4 in the Northwest Conference, while Whitman drops to 8-9 and 6-2 in conference play.
The first half was a tense affair, with Whitman holding a slight 35-30 lead at the break. Linfield shot 50% from the field in the first half, including five three-pointers. Whitman, on the other hand, was scorching hot from the field, shooting 60.9% in the opening period, though the Blues' three-point shooting was cold, making just one of seven attempts.
In the second half, Linfield came out strong, outscoring Whitman 33-26. Key performances came from guard
Cade Collins and big man
Garrett Callsen, who each finished with 17 points. Collins also contributed five rebounds and four assists, while Callsen added three rebounds and a steal. The Wildcats' defense stepped up throughout the game, forcing 15 crucial turnovers and capitalizing on them with as many points off turnovers.
As the game reached its final minutes, Whitman led 53-51 before Collins drained a clutch three-pointer to give the Wildcats a two-point lead. The Blues came up empty handed on the ensuing possession and freshman
Max Juhala nailed a three-pointer of his own to extend the lead. Although Whitman battled back and closed the gap to one point, the Wildcats refused to be denied and ended the game with a free throw by
Josh Ryan to come away with the victory.
The win stands as a signature moment in head coach
Levi Sieg's Linfield career, as the Wildcats knocked off the top team in the NWC, securing a historic win on the road.
NEXT
With momentum rolling its way, Linfield travels to Newberg for a contest with George Fox on Friday night at 6 p.m.