SALEM, Ore. - The Puget Sound Loggers (8-9, 3-5 NWC) edged past the Willamette Bearcats (6-10, 0-8 NWC) with an 87-82 victory. Key contributions from Puget Sound's starters proved to be the difference.

Senior Taj Phillips spearheaded the Logger attack with an impressive 30-point outing, shooting 50% from the field (8-16) and converting 11 of his 12 free-throw attempts. Phillips also contributed eight rebounds and eight assists in his 39 minutes on the floor. Forward Zane Miller added 18 points, knocking down four three-pointers, while Hugo Rutherfurd dominated in the paint with 18 points, six rebounds, and two blocks.

The first half saw Willamette establish an early lead, heading into the break up 42-37. The Bearcats excelled at the free-throw line, shooting 91.3% (21-23), but their efforts were overshadowed by a slower second-half shooting percentage of 33.3% from the field. Puget Sound surged in the second half, outscoring the Bearcats 50-40. The Loggers' defense capitalized on Willamette's turnovers, turning 17 miscues into 22 points. Miller's three-pointer with 1:46 remaining gave Puget Sound a five-point lead, and Phillips' clutch free throws in the final seconds sealed the victory for the Loggers.

Puget Sound will return to Memorial Fieldhouse on Friday, January 31st for their next game against Whitworth University who currently sits atop the conference with a 15-2 overall record, 6-2 NWC record. Tipoff is set for 6:00 p.m.