LAKEWOOD, WA – The Lower Columbia Red Devils men's basketball team faced a tough road test on Wednesday night, falling 89-77 to the Pierce College Raiders at the Pierce College HEC. Despite a spirited second-half effort and four players scoring in double figures, the Devils couldn't overcome a hot-shooting night from the hosts.
With the loss, Lower Columbia moves to 11-4 overall and 1-2 in NWAC West Region play.
The Red Devils found themselves trailing early, heading into the locker room down 49-35 at halftime. The Raiders' offense was efficient throughout the night, shooting 53.8% from the field compared to 41.4% for Lower Columbia. Pierce led by as many as 22 points in the second half, but the Devils refused to quit, outscoring the Raiders 42-40 in the final period.
Shane Douma-Sanchez led the way for Lower Columbia with a team-high 17 points, adding three rebounds and four assists in 31 minutes of action. He was a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line.
Kenyan Jackman-Thomas provided a massive spark in the paint, recording a double-double with 15 points and a game-high 11 rebounds. He was aggressive on the glass, pulling down two offensive boards to help the Devils battle inside.
Chance White contributed 14 points and four rebounds, getting to the line frequently and converting 8-of-10 free throws. Noah Schow rounded out the double-digit scorers with 11 points and six rebounds, while also tallying a steal. Javares Reid was a force on the defensive end, recording three blocks to go with his seven points.
Despite the loss, the Red Devils showed resilience at the charity stripe, shooting a solid 79.3% (23-29) as a team. They also won the rebounding battle 40-38, including 13 offensive boards that kept possessions alive. However, Pierce's offensive firepower, led by Mande Wanlemvo's 24 points, proved too much to overcome on the night.
The Red Devils will look to bounce back and defend their home court this weekend. Lower Columbia returns to Myklebust Gymnasium on Saturday, January 17, to host South Puget Sound. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM.
