PORTLAND, Ore. – Warner Pacific opened up a big lead, then held off a late charge from Antelope Valley in a 79-68 win at Bart Valentine Court.
 
Both teams came out of the gate slow, as the game was tied 11-11 after 10 minutes of play. That's when WPU (2-0) found their offensive flow, while the visiting Pioneers remained in a funk. Morris Bethea splashed four three pointers before the halftime buzzer sounded, pushing the host Knights out to a 49-29 lead at the break.
 
The trend continued in the second half as UAV (0-1) continued to struggle with scoring as Knight defense was stifling. WP held the Pioneers to a single field goal in the first eight minutes of the second period.  Meanwhile, WPU was finding enough looks at the basket to extend their lead out to 33 points (71-38) with 7:54 to play.  
 
Antelope Valley started a rally at that point, forcing turnovers and finding their shooting range. Even so, the Knights led by 24 (75-51) with 3:57 left but UAV made several three pointers and transition baskets, and held WP to just four free throws the rest of the way. Time slipped away however and Warner Pacific gladly claimed the 11 point win as time expired.
 
Morris Bethea led all players with 20 points – 18 in the first half. Brandon Bell added 15 points. Collin Malcolm was held in check with 7 points, but grabbed a game high 11 rebounds.