Willamette stomps Douglas 96-60

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette (6-4, 1-0 NWC) defeated Douglas (CAN) (0-4) 96-60 at Cone Field House on Monday. Willamette secured the win with a strong first-half performance, scoring 61 points and amassing a 34-point halftime lead. The home team forced 28 turnovers and collected 21 steals, converting those into 32 points off turnovers to maintain their advantage throughout the game.

Willamette seized control early with a strong defensive effort, forcing 19 turnovers while converting them into 24 points. This defensive pressure, combined with a 15-2 advantage in steals and a 30-8 edge in points in the paint, helped establish a commanding lead. Willamette's efficient shooting, including seven 3-pointers, propelled them to a 61-27 advantage by the end of the first half.

Willamette secured an early advantage with a dominant 14-2 run, highlighted by strong fast-break executions and precise 3-point shooting, contributing to six made threes. The home team leveraged 12 assists and six steals to capitalize on Douglas's nine turnovers, maintaining their momentum throughout the half. By the end of the second half, the Bearcats outscored the Lions 35-33, holding a commanding lead.

Tanner Overby scored 15 points, recorded eight assists, and collected three steals. Kellen Sande added 15 points with three 3-pointers and grabbed five rebounds. Dra Uperesa-Thomas posted 14 points and tallied two steals. Gavin Hall contributed with 13 points and three 3-pointers.

With the win, the Bearcats improved to 6-4 overall and 1-0 in NWC play. The loss leaves the Lions at 0-4 for the season.

The next challenge for Willamette comes on Friday, Jan. 2, as they travel to face Whitworth University. The game will tip off at 7:30 p.m. at the Whitworth Fieldhouse in Spokane, Washington.