Spokane Falls in Physical, Defensive Battle

Spokane put itself in position for a road win Saturday afternoon, but a strong fourth-quarter surge from Columbia Basin lifted the Hawks to a 62-57 victory.

The Sasquatch led 34-17 at halftime after holding Columbia Basin to just two points in the second quarter. Spokane's defense controlled the tempo early, forcing tough looks and limiting second-chance opportunities while building a 17-point advantage.

Columbia Basin responded in the second half, outscoring Spokane 19-16 in the third quarter to chip away at the deficit. The momentum fully shifted in the fourth, where the Hawks poured in 26 points while holding Spokane to just seven to complete the comeback.

Despite the loss, Spokane saw standout performances inside from Camia Howard and Karis Santucci, who both recorded double-doubles. Howard led the Sasquatch with 15 points and 10 rebounds, adding a block and a steal. Santucci controlled the glass with 11 points and 11 rebounds, including seven offensive boards that created second-chance opportunities throughout the game.

Journee Brooks added eight points and a team-high seven assists, helping facilitate Spokane's offense, while Kyla Conley and Macy Cummings each contributed six points.

Spokane finished shooting 37.3% from the field and 31.3% from three-point range, but struggled at the free throw line, converting just 2-of-6 attempts. Columbia Basin capitalized at the stripe, going 13-of-24, and held a significant 69-49 advantage on the boards.