PORTLAND, Ore. - The Portland CC men's basketball team played their first contest in more that 18 months, and earned a tough 73-71 win over Pierce College tonight in the first game of the Harold C. Williams Tournament.

First game nervousness was evident for both teams, as neither squad shot the ball well in the first half. PCC managed to make 11 of 31 tries, while the visiting Raiders connected on just 9 of 25 attempts. Pierce led 30-26 at the break thanks to making 8 of 10 from the free throw line.

The scoring efficiency was much better for both team after halftime, and the action picked up. Ambrose Johnson came alive for the host Panthers, scoring 17 of his team high 19 in the 2nd period. 

With the game tied at 71-71 with 19 seconds to play, George Sadi found space in the paint and scored as time expired to send PCC to the win.

Amisi Sadi was also a key player for the Panthers, contributing 17 points and a team high 8 rebounds.