(Auburn, WA) – Playing on the road is tough enough. But when you shoot 30 percent, get out-rebounded and turn it over 18 times then it's really tough.
The Lower Columbia men's basketball team lost at Green River 63-59 on Wednesday February 16
th. The loss dropped the Devils into second place in the West Region with a 6-2 record.
The Gators avenged an earlier loss to LCC in Longview, by staving off a Red Devil comeback in the second half. The Devils were down by 11 with 13 minutes left but rallied to get within two with 11 seconds left. Green River's Trey Anderson hit two free throws with three seconds left to seal the win.
Despite the shooting woes and the rebounding issues, LCC did not quit and they had opportunities in the waning moments to pull out the victory. But the Gators were fighting for their lives in order to stay in playoff contention.
Ky-mani Pollard had 14 points to lead LCC in scoring.
Emanuel Steward followed with 13.
LCC's top scorers were never able to find the range in the Swamp.
Sherman Royal III,
Dakota Reber and
Kyle Gruhler were a combined 7 for 29 from the floor. Gruhler led LCC with nine rebounds. Royal had eight caroms.
Solomon Campbell had seven points, six boards and three steals.
Anthony McDade had 18 to lead Green River, now 4-4 in the West.
Despite the loss, the Devils still have the league title in their own hands at 6-2. Tacoma leads the West at 7-1, but the Devils won the first matchup and the two teams will meet next Wednesday in Longview.
Meanwhile, the Devils have another tough road game this Saturday as they take on the 4-4 Pierce Raiders in Lakewood. Game time is 3 pm.
