Everett, WA – The men's team was back in action after a big road win on Saturday over Peninsula College, and looking to protect home court against the #1 ranked Skagit Valley Cardinals.
From the opening tip, the intensity of an NWAC playoff game filled the gym and both teams looked determined to come out on top. Through the first ten minutes of action, Everett held onto an 18-16 lead. After the media timeout it was more back and forth, end to end action with six lead changes and ultimately resulting in a 26-26 tie by the final media timeout of the half with 4:52 to play.
In those final five minutes, four more lead changes would ensue, until Everett went on a 6-0 run all by made free throws to build out to a 4-point lead (their largest of the game) with 43 seconds to go. The Cardinals converted on their final possession to cut the lead down to two and the Trojans would go into the break with a 35-33 lead. Neither team shot particularly well, both at 36% from the floor, thanks in large part to stellar defensive efforts. Brendon Redford and Cam Millican both led the Trojans in scoring with 8 points apiece.
The second half picked up right where the first left off with neither team gaining separation, bucket for bucket. Then with 13:18 remaining, Trey Miles hit a three giving the Trojans an eight-point lead, the largest lead by either team to that point. With some momentum Everett built the lead out to as much as 16 before a Skagit three with 7:24 to go stopped the run. At the final media timeout Everett held on to a 64-51 lead. Out of the timeout, the Cardinals used the three ball to climb back into the game and cut the lead to nine with 2:19 remaining. In the final minutes, Everett held their composure, converting 6 of nine free throws and preserving the 72-62 win.
The Trojan defense held Skagit Valley to 32.9% shooting from the floor, and out rebounded SVC 49-39. Brycen Dillworth played a stellar game scoring 14, grabbing 6 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists. Brendon Redford posted his 10th double-double of the season with 14 and 14.
The win brings Everett back up the standings in the ever tight north region, at one game out of 4th place. The Trojans will need to keep their foot on the gas, as they travel Saturday to Whatcom who is currently winless in the region. That game is scheduled for 4pm.