In a game that lived up to the billing of an early-season clash between two talented teams, Lower Columbia (8-0) held off a determined second-half effort by Clark (6-1) to secure a 72-67 win at Myklebust Gymnasium on Tuesday night. The Red Devils maintained their undefeated record thanks to clutch free throws and timely plays, while Clark's hot shooting in the second half nearly pulled off a stunning comeback.

First Half: Lower Columbia Holds Off Early Clark Push

The game started with a sense of urgency from both teams. Clark, coming in with a perfect 6-0 record, looked ready to challenge the Red Devils from the tip-off. However, it was Lower Columbia that settled into a groove first. Behind senior guard David Young, who poured in 16 points, the Red Devils managed to take control early, shooting 40% from the field in the first half. Clark struggled with its shooting accuracy, particularly from beyond the arc, finishing the first 20 minutes with just two made three-pointers on 11 attempts.

At halftime, Lower Columbia held a 31-26 lead, despite not hitting a single three-pointer in the first half. They were efficient in other areas, especially at the free-throw line, where they went 3-for-5. Malik Brown's eight points and Keshawn Lewis's all-around contribution helped keep Clark at bay, despite Terrell Moorer Jr.'s best efforts for the Penguins.

Second Half: Clark Roars Back, But Lower Columbia Prevails

The second half saw Clark come alive. After scoring just 26 points in the first half, the Penguins exploded for 41 points in the second half, shooting an impressive 48.7% from the floor. Moorer, who finished the game with 23 points and eight rebounds, led the charge, scoring 17 of his points in the second half alone. His efforts helped Clark climb back into the game after trailing by as many as 10 points early in the second half.

However, Lower Columbia answered every Clark surge with composure, highlighted by a 100% free-throw shooting performance (10-for-10) in the final 20 minutes. Despite Clark's hot shooting, it was Lower Columbia's ability to stay calm under pressure that kept them ahead. Kalim Brown, Amir Locus, and James Grose contributed solid minutes off the bench to support the starting lineup, ensuring the Red Devils maintained their lead.

Lower Columbia's defense tightened up when it mattered most, forcing Clark into difficult shot attempts late in the game. As the clock wound down, Malik Brown hit two critical free throws with just over a minute remaining, giving the Red Devils a five-point lead that Clark could not overcome.

What's Next:

Next up, the penguins will head to Ontario, Oregon next weekend to compete in the NWAC Crossover, hosted by Treasure Valley.

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