Men’s basketball won their first game of a two-game road trip against PLU with an impressive 11 point margin. Whitworth’s efficient shooting numbers were once again the key to their victory, shooting 52 percent from the field. Whitworth was also able to control the paint, out rebounding the Lutes 37 to 28. This win would move the Pirates to 12-3 in conference play, and 20-4 on the season.

“I thought we were able to turn some defense into offense and that really sparked us during that run,” said head coach Matt Logie.

Sophomore Chewey Zevenbergen provided a strong defensive presence off the bench, coming up with key blocks and a handful of rebounds to compliment 8 points on three for three shooting.  

“[Zevenbergen] gave us an absolute burst of energy when we really could use it,” Logie said.  “He made his presence felt on offense and defense and really showed what he’s capable of in the future.”

Whitworth lit up the Lutes in the second half, shooting 63 percent from the field and finishing the game with a final score of 76-65.

The Pirates traveled to Tacoma to finish off the season against the University of Puget Sound. 2018 Conference player of the year and senior Kyle Roach had 24 points, but the Bucs tea shooting was not on the way it was against PLU. Whitworth finished shooting an abysmal 39 percent from the field.

Going into the second half, Whitworth had been outscored 44-40, but Whitworth still felt in control.  UPS kept the pressure on and ended the game on a scoring streak. UPS leads the conference in three-point shooting percentage, shooting at a 52 percent clip against the Bucs. Whitworth would fall to 20-5 overall and 12-4 in conference.

The NWC tournament will kick off against Linfield at the Fieldhouse on the 21st at 7 p.m.