By: Ryan Lackey

NEWBERG, Ore. --- After their stellar double-overtime win over Pacific last night, the Bruins faced a tough task, traveling up to Puget Sound, fifth in the Northwest Conference, with no rest day. Still, the Bruins displayed remarkable energy, but the Loggers shot 50% from the field, and the Bruins took home an 87-65 loss.

Recap:
The disparity in shooting percentage reflects the difference in the scoreline. Firing on tired legs, the Bruins managed 33% from the field, while Puget Sound dropped in baskets at a more-than-brisk 50%. The Bruins, though, were far from listless, collecting nine steals and three blocks on the night.

Neither team came out on the front foot. Nearly two minutes passed before the first points were registered, but Puget Sound still managed to sneak out to an early lead: 21-13 midway through the first half.

Another good run, capped off by two Keith Shattuck free throws, put the Bruins in a serious 31-15 hole, but JJ Lacey immediately made a good move into the lane for a layup. Lacey then knocked down two free throws, and the Bruins began to eke out some momentum. Despite another Lacey two just before halftime, the Bruins still faced a 19-point shortfall at halftime, 48-29.

Given their demanding physical schedule, one would imagine the Bruins were gassed in the second half, but they played some of their best basketball of the night as the game continued. Josh Caddel came off the bench and did his job, nailing a long three to bring the Bruins within eighteen, and Johnathan Doutt made another trey right behind him. Suddenly clinical from deep, the Bruins surged as Chris Fedler, Lacey, and Doutt again hit three-pointers, and the Loggers suddenly saw their lead cut to 14.

Unfortunately for the Bruins, time kept slipping away, and what could have been a remarkable comeback effort fell short. The Loggers hit shots under pressure, and the clock ground down to zero with an 87-65 final for the hosts.

Top Performers:
Lacey was indomitable for the Bruins: in 31 minutes of work he recorded 16 points – both team-highs. He also pulled down five rebounds and dished two assists. Among the starters, Chris Fedler was next with nine points. Coming off the bench, Johnathan Doutt tallied ten points. Also working as a substitute, Ryan Thistlewood had eight points and led the Bruins with an inexhaustible presence down low, claiming nine rebounds. Thomas Rico notched eight points. Dylan Hamlett had five points.

What It Means:
The Bruins hold a 5-13 overall record. With their 2-7 mark in the NWC, the Bruins remain eighth, just ahead of rivals Linfield.

What Comes Next:
The Bruins hit the road next Friday, taking on Pacific Lutheran, who sit just higher in the NWC standings.