Basketball teams shape up as their season progresses through winter break

The Pioneers begin to get in the hardwood groove for the 2015-16 season

By CARLY CHELOVITZ

With Winter Break drawing near, Lewis & Clark’s basketball teams are reaching the peak of their season. The men’s team holds a record of 2-4, while the women’s team is still searching for a win this season. As training reaches it’s hardest point over this next month, what can we expect from each team going forward in their seasons?

The men’s team began their season with a loss at Portland State University, but picked up speed heading into their second game against Valley Forge College and won 94-65. Jason Lunhow ’16 led the game with six assists, three steals, and 24 points overall, higher than his game average of 18.8. “We started a little slow and had some first-game nerves, but to be able to go out and have everyone contribute like they did is a great sign for this team,” says Lunhow.

The freshman class also pulled the team ahead against Valley Forge. First year players Adrian Romero and Kupa’a Harrison scored 12 and 10 points for the Pioneers’ victory. Romero has averaged 12 points a game while Harrison sits at 7.5.

Though the women are still working for a win, they have been within 10 points of their opponents at almost every game this season. Their closest game was played against New Hope Christian College, with the Pioneers just six points away from winning their season opening game.  LC held the lead for the first half of the game, with a score of 47-42 at halftime. Miyah Leith ’18 scored 17 points within that half alone, right around her game average of 17.8. Overall, she scored 23 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. “What I know about this team is that we’re going to continue to fight, and I’m pumped we get another chance to get better,” says Leith.

Despite both teams dealing with losses thus far, their spirits continue to stay high as they head into winter training and games throughout December. The women have 19 games left to score a win, while the men are left with 20. Both teams will continue their season tonight at Whitworth University, followed by Whitman tomorrow. The men’s final game before the break is a trip to Evergreen  State next Wednesday, Dec. 9.