LAS VEGAS, NV -- The Portland Pilots rallied in a tight contest against the Pacific Tigers for a 75-72 victory. The win means Portland advances to the 2023 University Credit Union WCC Tournament Championship for the second time in four years.
The Pilots (22-8) had three players score in double figures, led by Alex Fowler, who had a season-high 29 points, six rebounds, four assists and five steals. Maisie Burnham tacked on 11 points and Emme Shearer helped out with 11 points and four steals.
Portland utilized excellent ball movement in Monday's game, piling up 21 assists on 29 made field goals. Individually, McKelle Meek was on top of the distribution list for the Pilots with six assists.
The Portland defense was effective at taking away the basketball in Monday's game, forcing 20 Pacific turnovers. Those takeaways turned into 30 points on the other end of the floor. Fowler's five steals led the way individually for the Pilots.
How It Happened
After falling behind 16-7, Portland went on a 10-0 run with 2:56 left in the first quarter to take a 17-16 lead. The Pilots then surrendered that lead and entered the second quarter down 18-17.
Pacific kept adding to that lead, building a 22-20 advantage before Portland went on a 7-0 run to take a 27-22 lead. The Tigers cut into that lead somewhat, but the Pilots still enjoyed a 39-36 advantage heading into halftime. Portland dominated in the paint, scoring 14 of its 22 points close to the basket.
Portland lost its advantage in the third quarter and trailed the Tigers 58-55 entering the fourth. Late in the final period, the Pilots narrowed its deficit to 67-66 before going on a 5-0 run to seize a 71-67 lead with 2:58 to go in the contest. The Tigers narrowed the margin somewhat before the game was over, but the Pilots still held on for the 75-72 win.
Game Notes
» The Pilots rallied from a three-point 58-55 third quarter deficit to pick up the win.
» The Pilots shared the ball well, recording an assist on 72 percent of made baskets and 21 total assists.
» The Pilots turned 20 turnovers into 30 points on the offensive end.
» Alex Fowler led the Pilots with a game-high 29 points. It is a season high for the forward.
» Portland got a team-high six rebounds from Alex Fowler as well.
» The Pilots advance to their second championship in four years under head coach Michael Meek
» Portland's 22 wins are officially the most since the 1996-97 season.
Up Next
The Pilots will play the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the championship tomorrow at 1 p.m. Check PortlandPilots.com for live stats, TV and video options.
Get Your Tickets Now!
Secure your spot now for any upcoming Portland Pilots ticketed home event by visiting PortlandPilots.com/Tickets or by downloading the Portland Pilots App. For group and fan experience package information, email pilotsboxoffice@up.edu.
Donate Today
Fans interested in making a contribution to the Pilot Athletic Fund can do so by clicking here. Your gift directly helps our nearly 300 student-athletes as they strive to make a difference in our community and achieve academic and athletic excellence. Thank you for support of Pilot Athletics!
Follow Along With the Action
Get the latest news and information about your favorite University of Portland athletic programs by visiting PortlandPilots.com. You can also follow along for the most dynamic coverage and team-centric content by following us on Twitter, liking us on Facebook, and following us on Instagram.