Roadrunners men’s basketball capped off the week with a strong win against the Mt. Hood Saints.
LBCC’s 86-75 win against Mt. Hood was a long defensive battle, but players from all over made a splash and kept up with the Saints all game. On defense, LBCC kept the clamps on Saints players throughout the contest, allowing only a 42.6% FG percentage, 45% from beyond the arch. Players that had an impact were starters Taylor Jensen and Adam Harvey, who combined for 22 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Defense was the name of the game for the night however. Players such as Riley Davis (three blocks) made a huge impact on that side of the court. The bench had stellar play and Peter Wilmes highlighted this with 13 points and seven rebounds.
“With the system we run, everyone has a chance to come in and make an impact,” said teammate AJ Chahal.
“Coach always emphasizes the importance of defense and rebounding, with those working, the offense will come naturally.”
Coming off of a solid win, the Roadrunners cannot take any breaks. They face a stellar Clackamas Cougars team on the road on Jan. 16, but aren’t making the matchup more than what it is; another chance to get the job done.They look to continue their smooth play against a strong and talented Clackamas Cougars team (12-3 Overall, 2-1 Conference) that is coming off of their first conference loss, an 89-60 drubbing given by Umpqua (9-6 Overall, 2-0 Conference).
“Clackamas is a great team. They’re strong and athletic. We’re gonna approach them just like we all do [with] every opponent though, and that all starts in the film room and at practice,” said Chahal.
The Cougars have only suffered three losses all season, and average a staggering 92 points per game, along with 50 rebounds per game and 22 assists per game. It’s a huge match on the road, and an opportunity for the Roadrunners to secure double digits in the win column. Holding the momentum is key and the team’s “everyone contributes” mindset will be a huge factor in their play.
The location plays a huge factor, as Clackamas currently holds an undefeated 4-0 record at home. The Roadrunners on the other hand, have been fantastic both ways, undefeated at home and 3-1 on the road are great records. However, when the site of the game is located at a neutral area, they’re 2-5. The odds seem large, but the focus remains.
“We like to hold momentum and never let up, even when we have the lead. We always talk about having team unity and unselfishness. Our team chemistry is excellent on and off the court and I think it makes us different than any other team in the NWAC,” said Chahal.
Story and Photos by Cam Hanson