ALBANY, Ore. - Portland bolstered their playoff hopes with a 72-65 win toady on the road over Linn-Benton.
The result snapped a three game losing streak and puts the Panthers region record at 8-5, currently 5th place in a highly competitive NWAC South.
PCC had struggled to score with any efficiency during the skid, but shot 47 percent in this one. Coach Graham McFall encouraged his team to be more aggressive on the offensive end, and the improved shooting was the result. A downside to the attacking style was 18 turnovers, but that negative stat was offset by forcing the Roadrunners into 14 of their own.
Lilly Walker scored 10 1st quarter points to help PCC to a 40-32 halftime lead. A buzzer beater from Alex Saunders gave the team momentum heading into the locker room.
LBCC rallied in the 3rd quarter, and cut the margin back to a single point (53-52) after Hannah Berschauer drilled her own buzzer beater - this one a three pointer.
After the Roadrunners took the lead in the 4th quarter at 56-55, Portland was looking at a fourth loss in a row. Kirsten Martin hit a three pointer to lift the Panthers' spirits, and a much needed response that carried PCC to the finish.
With the game tied at 60-60, Portland scored six points in a row - all from post Iris Cubit. A six of six effort from the free throw line in the final minute kept PCC in front and eventually secure the much needed victory.
Cubit finished with 19 points to lead PCC, while Walker added 18 including a 7 of 7 performance from the line.
