PASCO, Wash. - Portland outlasted Columbia Basin 86-82 today, sending the Panthers to the Final Four of the NWAC Championship Tournament for the first time since 2018.

The fans in attendance were treated to a thrilling finish. PCC looked to be well on their way to victory after building a 17 point lead in the second half. CBC were not about to go away quietly, and fought their way back to within two points inside the final minute of play. 

Portland led 82-75 with 1:19 to play, but the Hawks turned up the pressure and forced three Panther turnovers down the stretch. Jayden Martinez knocked down a three pointer to make the score 84-82 with 16 seconds left, but Brandon Hopson calmly sank two free throws to the relief of the PCC bench and salt away the win for the Panthers.

It was another total team performance for Portland, with five players in double figures. Josh Lincoln and Edy Essien shared high honors with 17 each. Kyle Gruhler continied his strong tourney with 15 points and 9 rebounds. 

Portland will face Green River on Saturday in for a chance at a championship game appearance.