(Shoreline, WA) The Lower Columbia Red Devils closed out their preseason with a hard-fought battle against the Shoreline Dolphins but fell short in a 73-68 loss on the road. Despite a strong effort and a standout performance from Keshawn Lewis, the Red Devils couldn't overcome Shoreline's efficient shooting in the second half.
Fast Start, Tight First Half
Lower Columbia came out strong, building an early lead and shooting well from beyond the arc. The Red Devils led by as many as 13 points in the first half, thanks to Amir Locus, who knocked down two early three-pointers, and Keshawn Lewis, who was a force offensively.
However, Shoreline fought back late in the first half, closing the gap and taking a slim 32-30 lead into halftime.
Second Half Battle
Lewis continued his offensive tear in the second half, finishing with a game-high 28 points, shooting 10-for-17 from the field and knocking down four three-pointers. He also added 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Javares Reid provided solid interior scoring, contributing 8 points and 5 rebounds, while Amir Locus added 12 points and 2 steals.
The Red Devils struggled from the field in the second half, shooting 38% overall and 31% from deep. Despite their efforts, Shoreline controlled the paint, outscoring Lower Columbia 44-30 inside. The Dolphins' Sherrell McCullum was a major factor, posting 20 points and 13 rebounds, helping Shoreline pull away in the final minutes.
Key Stats
- Keshawn Lewis – 28 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 4-11 3PT
- Amir Locus – 12 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, 2-3 3PT
- Javares Reid – 8 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals
- David Young – 5 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals
- James Grose – 7 points, 3 rebounds
- Lower Columbia Team Shooting – 38% FG, 31% 3PT, 100% FT
With the preseason now behind them, the Red Devils turn their focus to the regular season opener on January 8, at home vs the Centralia Trailblazers. The Red Devil women's team will take the court at 5:30 pm followed by the men at 7:30 pm.Â
