FOREST GROVE, Ore. - Linfield kicked off its Northwest Conference play with a tough 91-72 defeat against Pacific at the Stoller Center on Friday night to open up the new year.
The Wildcats faced a strong challenge from Pacific, who took control early with a 47-33 halftime lead. Despite the Wildcats' efforts in the second half, where they increased their scoring output to 39, Pacific maintained its advantage, securing the decisive victory.
Max Juhala led Linfield's offense with 16 points, including seven field goals, and grabbed five rebounds in 28 minutes.
Cade Collins and
Garrett Callsen each chipped in 14 points with Callsen adding four rebounds, two assists and a block. Collins also added two rebounds and a steal.
Cayden Lowenbach stepped up, adding nine points and two rebounds in 11 minutes of action.
Linfield's offense was centered on its interior game, where the Wildcats scored 38 points in the paint, but Pacific's sharp shooting from beyond the arc proved decisive. The Boxers hit 13 three-pointers on 27 attempts, a season best.
In the rebounding battle, Linfield held its own with 35 total rebounds, including 11 offensive boards, but Pacific's dominant presence on the glass (43 total rebounds) ultimately helped seal the victory.
Jake Blazona led Pacific with 15 points, five rebounds, and nine assists. Devin Fortune also netted 15 points along with six boards. Lucas Winkler added nine points for the Boxers, while Joel Meske contributed six points and seven rebounds in a solid all-around effort.
NEXT
The Wildcats hope to secure their first conference win on Saturday afternoon when George Fox comes to Ted Wilson Gymnasium at 4 p.m.