The Portland Pilots men’s basketball team was unable to overcome a late surge by Seattle University, falling 71-59 at the Redhawk Center on Saturday night. Despite narrowing a double-digit deficit to just one point three times in the second half, Portland could not take the lead as Seattle U finished with a decisive 16-0 run.
The game echoed their previous matchup, which Portland won by a single point on a last-second shot. This time, both teams struggled offensively in what was described as a defensive contest.
Joel Foxwell led the Pilots with 20 points, three assists, and three steals. James O’Donnell contributed 14 points while starting for the injured Cameron Williams. Jermaine Ballisager Webb and Garrett Nuckolls each added 10 points for Portland.
Portland committed 19 turnovers, resulting in Seattle U outscoring them 21-12 in points off turnovers. The Pilots held Seattle U to under 38 percent shooting from the field but managed only slightly less themselves at 37.5 percent.
Seattle’s Austin Maurer and John Christofilis each scored 14 points to pace their team.
In the first half, Portland struggled with turnovers and shooting but trailed by only nine at halftime. In the second half, after cutting Seattle’s lead to one point behind Foxwell’s efforts, Maleek Arington hit a key three-pointer for Seattle U before their closing run put the game out of reach.
Notable statistics included Foxwell recording his eleventh game of the season with at least 20 points and O’Donnell making all eight of his free throws. The Pilots made 24-of-29 free throws overall but were outrebounded by Seattle U, who also had more production from their bench.
Portland will end its regular season next week with two games: an away match against No. 11 Gonzaga on Wednesday followed by Senior Night at home versus San Diego Toreros on Saturday.
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