CHENEY, Wash. -- The Portland Pilots trailed early, but battled their way back for a 74-62 win on the road against the Eastern Washington Eagles. The win means the Pilots are undefeated through their first three games for the first time since the 2019-20 season. 

The Pilots (3-0) had two players score in double figures, led by Maisie Burnham, who secured a double-double with 22 points and 11 rebounds. It's the first double-double for a Pilot this year, and Burnham's the first Pilot to score at least 20 points in a game this season as well.

Rhyan Mogel added 13 points off the bench and Dyani Ananiev added four steals off the pine. All of Mogel's points came in the second half.

The Portland defense held Eastern Washington shooters to only 37.9% from the field, including 19% from three-point range. The Pilots made 28 free throws on the other end, the most they've made in a single game since 2016.

How It Happened

Portland struggled out of the gate, falling behind 21-12 at the end of the first quarter. Portland then cut the Eagles lead to 33-27 in the second quarter before going on a 7-0 run, highlighted by a three from McKelle Meek, to take a 34-33 lead. The score was even at 36 at halftime.

After intermission, Eastern Washington snatched an early lead before Portland answered back by going on a 7-0 run, punctuated by a basket from Trista Hull, to grab a 43-39 lead with 8:36 to go in the third. Before the conclusion of the third period, the Eagles had cut into that lead somewhat, but the Pilots still entered the fourth quarter with a 53-52 edge. Portland took advantage of seven Eastern Washington turnovers in the quarter, scoring six points off takeaways.

Eastern Washington proceeded to take a 54-53 lead before Portland went on an 11-0 run to seize a 64-54 lead with 3:43 to go in the contest. The Pilots fended off any push from the Eagles to earn their 74-62 win.

Game Notes

» Maisie Burnham notched an impressive double-double for the Pilots with 22 points and 11 rebounds. She's the first Pilot to record a double-double this season and the first to score at least 20 points in a game this year.
» The Pilots held the Eagles to only 37.9% shooting from the field and 19% from beyond the arc.
» Portland had a 39-38 edge on the boards in the win.
» The Portland defense forced 23 turnovers with four steals. Ananiev's four steals led the way and matched a career high.
» The Pilots start the year 3-0 for the first time since the 2019-20 season.
» Portland's 28 free throws are the most they've made in a game since 2016. 

Up Next

The Pilots are back home for their next contest, hosting the Seattle U Redhawks on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Chiles Center. Check PortlandPilots.com for live stats and video options.

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