PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Portland Pilots (5-5) couldn't stave off the second-half push from the Washington State Cougars, falling 69-63.

The Pilots (5-5) had three players score in double figures, led by Alex Fowler, who had 15 points and six rebounds. Maisie Burnham tacked on 14 points and Lucy Cochrane chipped in as well with 10.

Portland out-rebounded Washington State 32-25 in Wednesday's game, led by Fowler's six boards. The Pilots also collected 12 offensive rebounds and scored 17 second chance points.

Portland forced 17 Washington State turnovers. The Pilots turned those takeaways into 10 points on the offensive end of the floor. Haylee Andrews led the way individually with three steals.

How It Happened

After jumping out to a 5-2 advantage, Portland went on a 10-0 run with 7:22 left in the first quarter, culminating in a bucket from Fowler, to increase its lead to 15-2. The Pilots then maintained that lead and entered the quarter break with a 19-6 advantage. Portland did most of its first quarter damage in the paint, scoring 10 of its 19 points close to the basket.

The Pilots maintained their lead in the game's second frame and entered halftime with a 35-24 edge. Portland saw non-starters score seven of its 16 total points off the bench in the quarter.

After intermission, Portland held on to its advantage and owned a 48-47 lead heading into the fourth quarter, despite the Cougars outscoring the Pilots by 10 in the quarter.

Washington State then erased the Portland lead in the game's final minutes for a 69-63 comeback victory.

Game Notes

» The Pilots put on a passing clinic, recording an assist on 71 percent of made field goals. They had 15 assists total.
» Portland lost despite a 32-25 rebounding advantage.
» The Portland defense forced 17 turnovers with nine steals.
» Portland cleaned up on the offensive glass, collecting 12 offensive boards in the game.
» Alex Fowler led the Pilots with 15 points, her seventh game this season leading the Pilots in scoring.
» Portland got six rebounds from both Alex Fowler and Emme Shearer.
» Burnham's 14 marks the fifth game where she's scored 10 points or more.

Up Next

The Pilots will stay home as they host their crosstown rivals in the Portland State VIkings. The two teams play on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 3 p.m. on Portland's CW. Check PortlandPilots.com for live stats and video options as well.