PORTLAND, Ore. - Portland CC missed their opportunity to go atop the NWAC South standings, falling to Umpqua 75-70 yesterday at Cascade Gym.

The two teams were locked in a competitive game, but the visiting Riverhawks were able to gain the advantage for a stretch in the first half. Over a seven minute duration, UCC moved the score from a 9-9 tie to a 30-17 lead. PCC closed the gap down to 36-27 at halftime, but the Panthers did not make up the deficit for the rest of the game.

Portland found more success scoring the ball in the second half, but Umpqua had an answer for every rally attempt. A last effort from Portland made the score 69-65 with 2:15 remaining, but the Panthers could not get over the hump.

The result puts UCC on top of the standings at 5-2 while PCC drops to 5-3, both solidly in the top four and playoff position.

Jackson Leach led Portland with 19 points and four assists. Daniel James added 17 points and 12 rebounds.