Forest Grove, Ore. - Willamette University held a four-point lead at halftime but were outscored 48-29 in the second half and lost at Pacific 77-62.  Kai Brown led three Bearcats in double figures with 13 points.

The Bearcats started strong in the first half, with D'Ante Dean opening the scoring with a jumper.  Caleb Moore hit a 3-pointer with 14:02 remaining to make the score 7-4 and Willamette extended their lead to 21-6 on a layup by Ryder Hsiung with just under seven minutes remaining in the half. Pacific finished the half on a 23-12 run to pull with four points as Willamette led 33-29 at the break.

In the second half, the Bearcats faced a challenging stretch where they struggled to find the basket, shooting 11 for 38 from the field. Despite the shooting difficulties, D'Ante Dean and Caleb Moore were active on the boards, with Dean contributing key offensive rebounds and lay-ups to keep the score close. Kai Brown provided a spark with a jumper and a successful three-point play, bringing the Bearcats within three points at 42-39. However, the Boxers capitalized on Willamette's turnovers and extended their lead with a series of fast breaks and 3-pointers, ultimately outscoring the Bearcats 48-29 in the half.

Willamette returns home for their next game as they host the University of Puget Sound on Saturday, January 25th.  Tip-off is scheduled for 4:00 pm at Cone Fieldhouse.

Willamette Top Performers

#4 Caleb Moore 10 total rebounds, 3/8 field goals made, 8 points scored

#13 D'Ante Dean 6/10 field goals made, 8 total rebounds, 12 points scored

#22 Kai Brown 5/12 field goals made, 3 steals, 5 assists