In a back and forth North Region battle, visiting Everett came out on top with a 78-75 win over Bellevue at Courter Family Athletic Pavilion.
The Bulldogs played a relatively solid first half shooting 44% from the field while outrebounding the Trojans 20-17. The Trojans stayed in the game, down by only two at 36-34 at the half. Logan Stempniak was a perfect five-for-five on field goals and had eight rebounds. Josiah Johnson had 11 in the half as well to pace BC.
Everett caught fire in the second half, shooting a blistering 67% from the field and made seven-for-seven from the line. Although the ‘dogs could not match Everett’s efficiency, they remained in the game as the teams traded leads until the final minute. With 1:47 remaining Bellevue trailed by two buckets at 71-67. Johnson’s score made it 71-69. He would perform late game heroics again converting on a three-point play on a bucket and free throw on a foul to tie the game a 73 with only 43 seconds remaining. With both teams getting chances to win it in the final seconds, the Bulldogs committed a costly foul and turnover, wiping out any chance to score as Everett pulled away in the final half minute.
Stempniak ended the night with a double-double, scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds. Johnson added 18 while Marcus Cole dished out a team-high eight assists.
Bellevue is 1-1 in North Region play (12-5 overall) and travels to Peninsula Wed. Jan. 17 for a 7 p.m. game.
(game photos below property of BC Athletics / taken by Corky Trewin)
Last Updated January 13, 2024
