Warner Pacific Defeats Lights in Home Opener
BOX SCORE
PORTLAND, Ore. – Avenging a loss last weekend in Montana, Warner Pacific defeated Montana State-Northern 69-67 at Bart Valentine Court tonight.
The host Knights (3-1) rallied from a second half deficit that reached as many as 13 points. After David Maddock hit a three pointer, the visiting Lights (6-2) enjoyed a 10 point advantage at 50-40 with 13:53 to play.
Looking for a spark, WP head coach Jared Valentine called for a full court press that gave MSUN some trouble and allowed the Knights to crawl back in the game. Stephen Harris completed the comeback for Warner Pacific with a three point play and put the Knights in front 60-59 with 5:39 on the clock.
It was a battle to the finish as the score was tied two more times down the stretch. William Sharp and Biniam Tadele scored clutch baskets to push the Knights ahead by four, but MSUN’s Sean Kelly converted a layup at the other end with 9 ticks on the clock to give the Lights hope.
WP’s Doug Thomas was fouled on the ensuing possession but he couldn’t connect at the line, allowing MSUN one last chance. Maddock’s running attempt on the baseline fell short however, and the Knights escaped with the win.
Warner Pacific finished the game at 54 percent field goal shooting overall, compared to 45 percent for the visitors.
Tadele started slow but finished with 18 points to lead WPC. Sharp added 12 points and five assists, while freshman Doug Thomas provided 11 points and 10 rebounds off the bench.
Shaun Tatarka was the top scorer for MSUN with 14 points, while Joe Simpson added 12 points and five assists.