TACOMA, Washington (January 14, 2025) – The Loggers (6-8, 1-4 NWC) fell to cross-town rivals Pacific Lutheran (5-9, 2-3 NWC), 71-69, in a tight contest tonight. With seconds remaining, the Loggers trailed by three points, but were fouled by the Lutes and only able to shoot two free-throws.

The game was close from the start, but the Loggers gained some momentum on a 9-0 run, led by a jumper from Taj Phillips. Leading 25-16, Puget Sound maintained control through a scrappy first half. Despite committing seven turnovers, compared to the Lutes' five, the Loggers capitalized on the Lutes mistakes and converted nine points. Pacific Lutheran narrowed the gap to within a basket but never led. The half ended with the Loggers up, 38-36.

The Lutes came out strong in the second half, launching a 10-0 run that left the Loggers scoreless for five possessions. Pacific Lutheran went ahead 48-44. However, Puget Sound found success from beyond the arc, shooting 56 percent (9-for-16), and regained the lead after a three-pointer by Zane Miller. The Lutes, though, recovered more rebounds and managed to tie the game at 56 with just under eight minutes to go. Both teams traded leads, but the Lutes surged ahead 65-61 and were able to hold off the Loggers.

Phillips led Puget Sound with 18 points and five rebounds, followed by Ian Cook, who had 14 points and seven rebounds.

The Loggers will travel to Portland to face the Lewis & Clark Pioneers on Saturday at 4 p.m.