The Portland Pilots secured an exhilarating overtime triumph against UTEP with a final score of 68-63, marking their second consecutive come-from-behind victory in as many weeks.
With a record of 6-5, the Pilots delivered an impressive performance, with three players achieving double-digit scores. Kennedy Dickie led the way with a season-high 16 points, followed by Kianna Hamilton-Fisher with 15 points and four assists, and Burnham contributing 12 points.
Portland’s outstanding ball movement was evident as they tallied 18 assists on 24 made field goals. McKelle Meek led the Pilots’ distribution with five assists. On the defensive front, Portland limited UTEP’s shooting to 36.4% from the field, with just 14.3% from three-point range.
The game commenced with both teams exchanging early baskets, but with 8:00 remaining in the first quarter, Portland embarked on a 5-0 run to establish a 9-4 lead, solidified by a 3-pointer from Burnham. Although the lead was ultimately relinquished, Portland concluded the first quarter just one point behind, with the scoreboard showing 18-17 in favor of UTEP.
The second quarter witnessed Portland making a strong start with a 7-0 run, propelling them to a 24-18 lead. However, UTEP fought back and regained the lead at 30-26 before the Pilots brought it down to one point with a last-second 3-pointer from Dickie.
After halftime, Portland re-entered the game with renewed vigour, securing a 34-30 advantage with 8:38 remaining in the third quarter. However, UTEP responded by surging to a 47-38 lead by the end of the third. Portland managed to reduce the deficit to 49-44, and then initiated an impressive 10-0 run to claim a 54-49 lead with 4:24 remaining in the fourth. The Miners counteracted, resulting in a 57-57 tie and compelling the game into overtime.
In the initial overtime period, Portland secured a 60-59 lead with 2:13 remaining, eventually clinching the victory with a 68-63 scoreline. The team’s determination and resilience were apparent in this hard-fought triumph.
Looking ahead, the Pilots are scheduled to face the formidable No. 9 Stanford Cardinal on December 15 at 7 p.m.
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