Bearcats Pull Away Late in 81–74 Win Over Lewis & Clark

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette (9-7, 4-3 NWC) secured an 81-74 victory over Lewis & Clark (8-8, 4-3 NWC) on Friday night at Cone Field House. Willamette overcame a one-point halftime deficit by outscoring Lewis & Clark 45-37 in the second half. The Bearcats capitalized on 21 free throws and a 40-30 rebounding advantage to turn the tide. Lewis & Clark's efforts included 21 assists but were not enough to close the gap.

Willamette and Lewis & Clark engaged in a tightly contested first half, with Lewis & Clark narrowly leading 37-36 at the break. The Bearcats held an edge in points in the paint, scoring 18 compared to Lewis & Clark's 12, while also benefiting from 14 points off the bench. Despite this, Lewis & Clark's accuracy from beyond the arc with four 3-pointers and their ability to convert 11 of 12 free throws contributed to their slim halftime advantage.

In a tightly contested second half, Willamette's precision at the free-throw line proved decisive, converting 12 of 13 attempts to outpace Lewis & Clark. Despite both teams netting 15 field goals, the Bearcats' advantage in fast-break points, 8 to 4, and their ability to capitalize on turnovers with five steals were instrumental in maintaining momentum. The half ended with Willamette leading 81-74.

Willamette improved to 9-7 overall and 4-3 in the NWC after their victory. Lewis & Clark is now 8-8 overall and 4-3 in conference play.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats will face Pacific University on Saturday, Jan. 24. The game will tip off at 5 p.m. at Forest Grove, Oregon.