MORAGA, Calif. – Portland tested league-leading Saint Mary's but dropped a 79-66 decision Wednesday night in West Coast Conference men's basketball action at University Credit Union Pavilion.
The Pilots (10-18, 5-10) had three players score in double figures, led by Vukasin Masic, who had 15 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Max Mackinnon added 13 points and eight assists and Chris Austin chipped in as well with 11 points.
Portland shot 48 percent overall, but finished just 5-for-17 from three-point range and 9-of-15 at the foul line. Saint Mary's shot 47 percent and 9-for-24 from beyond the arc.
The Gaels (24-4, 14-1) racked up a 41-27 rebounding margin and 14-3 advantage in second chance points. Paulius Murauskas finished with a game-high 20 points and 11 rebounds to pace Saint Mary's.
How It Happened
The first half featured three ties and three lead changes early before the Gaels separated with an 11-2 run for a 36-24 lead. The Pilots got a pair of late baskets from Chris Austin to cut the deficit to 36-28 at the break.
Saint Mary's scored the first five points of the second half and they extended the margin to 16 points midway through the period. A three-pointer by Max Mackinnon and jumper from Vukasin Masic cut the deficit to 61-50 with 8:58 remaining, but that would be as close as it would get down the stretch.
Game Notes
» The Pilots shared the ball well, recording an assist on 17 of 26 made baskets.
» Vukasin Masic led the Pilots with 15 points, eight rebounds and seven assists.
» Freshman forward Austin Rapp moved into a tie for 10th place on the UP single-season charts for three-pointers made (71), he already owns the freshman record.
Up Next
Portland continues its road trip with a Saturday game at Pacific with a 4 p.m. tip-off.
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