FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 21st, 2024

Kirkland, Wash.| The Knights dropped their first game of the weekend due to a slow first quarter against the Northwest University Eagles. The final score was 71-60, but that doesn't reflect the battle the Knights put up. Going into halftime the Knights only trailed by six and when they started the fourth quarter they only trailed by two. However, the Eagles were able to stay on top and move the Knights record to 4-7 overall.

Individually, three Knights drew their swords and brought down destruction. The first and leader was McKeeley Tonkin who came off the bench and scored 16 points, 10 of which from the line. Tonkin was followed by Emily Fortin who scored her career high in points with 13. The third and final Knight to break double digit points was Skylar Groesbeck who scored 10 and broke the 60 point mark for the season.

On a team level, the Knights showed that their strong point is defense. They had 41 rebounds, 12 of which were offensive. The Knights also had four steals, created 12 turnovers and scored 18 points off turnovers. On the offensive end the Knights shot a better percentage from the field making 20 of their attempted shots. Threes were a little harder as they made only two of their 14 attempts for a 14.3% shooting percentage. They were also able to create points for almost all individuals who touched the court with seven people scoring more than once.

"We're finding growth in the second half adjustments which is very positive," Jimmy Smith said. "The third quarter was a good sign of what can come with more time. After break, we're back to work."

The Knights will take a break for Christmas before playing their last game of the 2024 calendar year when they travel across town to Multnomah to take on the Lions at 3pm. They will then take another break and start 2025 at home against Walla Walla University on January 3rd. Tip off is set for 12pm in the C.C. Perry Gym.