ASHLEAND, Ore. – In a game full of drama, grit, and momentum swings, the College of Idaho men's basketball team held off Southern Oregon for a thrilling 71-67 victory at Lithia Motors Pavilion on Saturday evening. The Yotes extended their dominance in the Cascade Collegiate Conference, improving to 18-2 overall and 13-1 in conference play.
From the opening whistle, the energy was electric. Southern Oregon struck first with a quick 5-0 run, but Drew Wyman responded for the Yotes, burying a three-pointer to ignite an 8-0 answer that turned the tide. The Raiders fought back, fueled by Elijah Jackson's relentless scoring, but the Yotes surged late in the first half behind the sharpshooting of Johnny Radford and Wyman. By halftime, College of Idaho led 39-33, buoyed by their tenacious defense and dominance in transition.
The second half saw Southern Oregon claw back, closing the gap with a 7-0 run to tie the game at 50-50 with just over ten minutes remaining. The Yotes, however, refused to buckle under the pressure. Tyler Robinett delivered a thunderous dunk that shifted momentum back in their favor, while Radford and Samaje Morgan showcased their composure in the game's most critical moments.
With under a minute remaining and the Yotes clinging to a three-point lead, Morgan drove through the Raiders' defense for a crucial layup, converting an and-one opportunity to stretch the lead to six. Southern Oregon's Bryce Dyer answered with a deep three-pointer, cutting the lead to two with just six seconds left. On the ensuing possession, Wyman iced the game at the free-throw line, sealing the victory for the Yotes.
Radford led the way with 17 points, going a perfect 5-for-6 from the free-throw line in the clutch. Wyman tallied 15 points and pulled down eight rebounds, while Robinett contributed 11 points and three blocks, serving as the Yotes' defensive anchor. Morgan orchestrated the offense masterfully, adding 11 points and five assists, including several key setups in crunch time.
The Yotes continue their road trip next week, facing Bushnell University in Eugene, Oregon, on January 31st. Tipoff is set for 6:30 pm MT.
