Linn-Benton Men Upset Clark for First League Win

ALBANY, Oregon- The Linn-Benton Men's Basketball team defeated Clark Community College 84-82 on Saturday, Feb. 19. 

The Roadrunners improved to 3-14 on the season, and 1-9 in the NWAC South Region. 

The Clark Penguins fell to 11-11 on the season, and 4-6 in the NWAC South Region. 

The Penguins entered the game on a two game losing streak, and sitting two games behind Clackamas Community College for fourth place in the NWAC South Region. The Penguins matchup against the Roadrunners was a must win game. 

Instead, the Roadrunners decided to play spoiler. A 22 point performance from Roadrunner Ayden Foster, and a strong team performance from the free-throw line paved the way for Linn-Benton. 

"My teammates just hit me in the right spots at the right time and I was able to convert them in the right place, and you know I give it all to my teammates, they really helped me do what I did tonight," Foster said.

The first half ended with both teams tied at 40 and shooting a combined 25 total free throws. In the second half the Roadrunners were able to give themselves a 12 point lead with 6 minutes left to play. A 20 to 7 run by the Penguins pulled them within 2 with 5.6 seconds remaining on the game clock.

 After a made free throw by Ayden Foster,  Penguin Albert Rodwens attempted to go the length of the court to tie the game, but his layup attempt bounced off the rim as time expired. 

"They deserved it, I can't be happier for those guys, they've stuck with it…they've been through a lot and we just kept staying positive and just kept trying to instruct, teach, and coach. Good things happen when you stay together as a team and they showed that tonight," Roadrunner Head Coach Everett Hartman said. 

Next up the Roadrunners travel to take on Mt.Hood Community College on Monday, Feb. 21. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at 26000 SE Stark St, Gresham, OR.