PORTLAND, Ore. - Portland CC put forth a much improved effort yesterday afternoon at Cascade Gym but came up short versus Linn-Benton, 76-67.

The Panthers were determined to make a good showing from the start, and led 17-16 after the first quarter. Kamakila Waiwaiole was the focal point, scoring 11 points on 5 of 7 shooting.

Linn-Benton used a 9 of 18 shooting effort in the 2nd quarter to take control however, and enjoyed a 36-29 lead at halftime.

Portland attempted their rally in the 3rd quarter, drawing to within one point (41-40) thanks to two free throws from Bregan Ruhland. 

The game stayed close the rest of the way, but the Panthers never could get over the hump and regain the lead. PCC once again made it a one possession game early in the 4th quarter (49-48), but the Roadrunners responded to every surge with a key basket.

Waiwaiole finished with 20 points while making 8 of 9 attempts from the charity stripe. Ruland added 16 points, Udoka Amadi is proving to be a welcome addition to the roster, contributing 12 points and six rebounds.