Chemeketa Hosts Southwestern Oregon

Chemeketa Triumphs Over Southwestern Oregon in Overtime Thriller

In an exhilarating college basketball matchup on January 11, 2025, at the Storm Center, Chemeketa emerged victorious over Southwestern Oregon with a narrow 75-73 win in overtime. The game, marked by intense competition and strategic plays, saw both teams battling fiercely, but it was Chemeketa's superior shooting accuracy and clutch performance in overtime that secured their win.

Chemeketa's victory was driven by their effective shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, where they posted an impressive 41.2% success rate compared to Southwestern Oregon's 22.2%. The home team also outperformed their opponents in field goal percentage, shooting 45.3% against Southwestern Oregon's 33.3%.

Key Performers:

- Cooper Gobel played a pivotal role for Chemeketa, contributing 18 points off the bench with an efficient 8-13 shooting, including two crucial three-pointers.
- Gabe Wigginton was another standout performer for Chemeketa, adding 16 points and grabbing 7 rebounds, while shooting 6-8 from the free-throw line.
- For Southwestern Oregon, **Colby Whicker** led the scoring with 17 points, showcasing his prowess with three three-pointers and a perfect 4-6 from the free-throw line.
- Logan Deal was a force on the boards, securing 11 rebounds and adding 13 points for Southwestern Oregon.

The game was tightly contested from the start, with Chemeketa holding a slim 34-32 lead at halftime. Both teams continued to exchange leads throughout the second half, ultimately ending regulation tied at 66-66. In overtime, Chemeketa managed to outscore Southwestern Oregon 9-7, thanks in part to their composure and precision under pressure.

- Chemeketa's bench proved to be a decisive factor, contributing significantly to their scoring output.
- Southwestern Oregon dominated the boards with 41 rebounds compared to Chemeketa's 35, but their shooting woes hindered their ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities.
- Turnovers were minimal for Southwestern Oregon, who remarkably recorded zero turnovers, while Chemeketa had nine, highlighting the visiting team's disciplined play.

Overall, the game was a testament to the competitive spirit of both teams, with Chemeketa's shooting efficiency and bench strength ultimately tipping the scales in their favor. The win brings Chemeketa's record to 6-8, while Southwestern Oregon falls to 12-3. Both teams now stand at 1-1 in their conference play, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.