Pacific Lutheran University Athletics

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Pacific Lutheran University men's basketball team had its first road test of the season on Saturday, overpowering host Warner Pacific University in the second half to secure the 71-64 non-conference victory inside the CC Perry Gymnasium.

Noah Gathings once again led the Lutes (3-0), scoring 26 points in just 23 minutes of work, hauling in 10 rebounds and finishing 10-for-15 from the floor. 

The host Knights (2-3)  led by as many as 13 points in the first half, using an 11-0 run to build a 22-9 lead with 11:58 left in the opening stanza on an Andrew Gooding and one play. PLU slowly chipped away at the lead, trailing by just six at the break thanks to a Cam Rice layup. 

PLU tied the game at 38 on a Gathings three with 16:47 left in the game while a Rice layup gave the Lutes their first lead since early in the first half. It was a lead Pacific Lutheran held the rest of the game, holding off a late charge for the 71-64 victory.

Rice finished with 13 points and seven rebounds while Shawn Etheridge stuffed the stat sheet with 10 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. Henry Smith hauled in 10 rebounds with Charlie Kapranos scoring eight off the bench. 

PLU held a 51-39 rebounding edge and enjoyed a 16-5 advantage in bench points. 

"This was another great rep for us early in the season. Go on the road, struggle early, grind to get back in it, come out in the second half and play how we're capable of playing, and then do what was necessary to secure a win in another team's building," said Head Coach Chad Murray.

"The guys responded beautifully after halftime by sticking together and allowing Noah and that first group the opportunity to elevate the entire team. The energy was fantastic from the bench and we  were able to string some stops together and take control of the game. 

I was really happy to see Cam have such a nice second half along with both Dylan and Hunter who played some big minutes at a critical time."

The Lutes take the next 10 days off, returning to the hardwood on Nov. 24, hosting in-state rival The Evergreen State College. Tipoff inside Olson Gymnasium is set for 7:30 p.m.