TACOMA, WA – The Lower Columbia Red Devils overcame a slow start to dominate the second half, securing a decisive 75-58 road victory over Tacoma on Wednesday night at the Tacoma Community College gymnasium.
After a tightly contested first half that saw LCC holding a slim 32-26 lead, the Red Devils exploded for 26 points in the third quarter to break the game open. The victory was a total team effort, featuring balanced scoring, aggressive defense, and dominance on the boards.
The game began as a defensive battle, with LCC taking an 18-17 lead after the first quarter. Both teams struggled offensively in the second period, but the Devils managed to head into the locker room with a six-point advantage.
The third quarter proved to be the turning point. Lower Columbia's offense caught fire, shooting 45.8% from the field in the period while the defense forced turnovers and controlled the tempo. The Devils extended their lead to as many as 25 points in the fourth quarter, cruising to the 17-point victory.
LCC's defense was stifling, holding Tacoma to just 34.8% shooting from the field and forcing 21 turnovers, which the Devils converted into 19 points.
Key Performers
Three Red Devils scored in double figures, led by Shailoh Li'ili'i, who posted a dominant double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Li'ili'i was a force on both ends, shooting 7-of-12 from the field and adding 3 steals.
Jaci Gonnie provided a spark from the perimeter, finishing with 14 points, including four three-pointers, and dishing out 3 assists. Angelica Askey added 10 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds, directing the offense effectively throughout the night.
Regan Brewer filled the stat sheet with 5 points, a game-high 6 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals, setting the tone for the Devils' ball movement and defensive intensity.
Adrian Wright was huge on the glass, matching Li'ili'i with 10 rebounds to go along with 3 points and 2 assists.
Bench contributions were also key, with Lillian Bickford adding 9 points and 4 rebounds, and Breanna Albright chipping in 7 points and 5 boards.
By The Numbers
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Rebounding: LCC dominated the glass, outrebounding Tacoma 46-35, including 17 offensive rebounds.
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Paint Presence: The Devils controlled the interior, outscoring Tacoma 38-26 in the paint.
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Shooting: LCC shot 37.8% from the field (28-74) and 63.2% from the free-throw line.
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Defense: The Devils tallied 11 steals and 2 blocks as a team.
Up Next: The Red Devils will look to build on this momentum as they travel to Des Moines, WA this weekend. Lower Columbia faces the Highline Thunderbirds on Saturday, January 24. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 pm.
