The T-birds had some exciting games this past week with the men and women heading down to Pierce College. Both teams came away from the match up victorious over their Raider counterparts.
In the Feb. 7 match, the women showed grit and determination, defeating Pierce 46-40 in a come-from-behind win. The Thunderbirds outscored Pierce 20-7 in the fourth quarter to secure the victory.
Stephen Glover
While the men crushed it against the Raiders, winning 88-66. Freshman guard Dane Lewis was the leading scorer for Highline with 25 points, while Freshman forward Taylor Mwale posted a double double – having 11 points and 11 rebounds.
“The team was clicking and flowing, it felt like it was all us, we were all locked in and we wanted it more,” said Mwale after the game. “Our energy was there and we were engaged. You could tell it was our game.”
Highline proving they want it this season, showing up and out every game fighting to make the tournament. With only five games left, Highline’s teams then took on South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia, Wash., on Feb. 11.
These games proved to be demanding for both the men and women. South Puget Sound showed up ready, making a hard game for the Highline teams, ultimately both teams weren’t able to overcome and posted losses. The women finished trailing SPSCC 67-43 while the men fell with a final score of 88-59.
“It was one of those games. We beat Puget Sound the first time and we showed up ready to play and win. Yesterday’s game was unfortunate. You can’t win them all, it’s just how it goes,” said Mwale, sharing how he felt. “But we fought, our shots weren’t falling, and we had to forget and move to our next game and lock in to prepare for Centralia – they beat us the first time but not this time we will be ready.”
Next, Highline takes on Centralia College, who come to the Thunderdome this Saturday, Feb. 14. The men are scheduled to play at noon, while the women tip-off at 2 p.m.
These are games to definitely watch, and although it will be a gritty fight for both teams, the Thunderbirds are ready to break the hearts of the Trailblazers in this set of Valentine’s Day matches.
Show up (and even bring your dates) to support our T-birds!