GRESHAM, Ore. - Portland cruised to a comfortable win at Mt. Hood yesterday 98-68, keeping pace in the NWAC South standings.

PCC jumped out to a 13-2 lead in this one, and never trailed versus the short handed Saints. The home team showed a little life toward the end of the first half, scoring seven straight to make the score 33-25. Portland responded and went on to lead by 18 points at halftime (53-35).

The gap expanded out to 30 points quickly in the second half, and Mt. Hood had no answer. Portland held Mt. Hood to just 30 percent shooting in the half and 34 percent for the game.

The Panthers shot the ball well at 48.7 percent and were especially effective from the three point line, making 13 of 28 attempts. 

Daniel James was a menace in the paint, scoring 27 points and grabbing 21 rebounds. Edy Essien added 16 points including four three point makes.