Columbia Basin defeated the Umpqua Riverhawks 70-65 to punch their first ticket to the Final Four under Amy Sokaitis. Trinidie Nichols had 26 points to go with 9 assists and 6 rebounds for the Hawks. Lexie Heath poured in 20 points along with 4 steals in support.

A very big Umpqua team provided a unique match-up for CBC who runs on the shorter end. Despite the size, the CBC front court dug their feet in from the jump. Heath and Nichols were on fire early with 16 combined points in the First as the Hawks raced out to an early 24-12 lead.

The Riverhawks were able to get a few looks inside during the second but CBC was relentless in their physically defending the low post. Heading into half, Basin carried a 10 point lead allowing just 29 points on defense.

Umpqua made their run in the Third as their posts were able to get some put-backs and layups inside while chasing the deficit all the way back to take a 4 point lead into the final frame. Mickayla Robertson and her front-court running-mates did their best to put pressure on the Riverhawks by continuously attacking the rim. 

CBC laid on the pressure again in the Fourth on offense and defense causing Umpqua to commit 5 turnovers and 11 fouls in the period. Nichols was able to take control of the game scoring 14 of her 26 in the frame while knocking down 6 big free throws down the stretch. CBC would eventually outscore Umpqua 24-15 in the period to carry the final score of 70-65.

The win moves CBC into the Final Four where they will meet West #1 seed Green River who upset #2 ranked Clackamas to punch their ticket to the second weekend. Tipoff is scheduled for Saturday, March 18th at 1pm. Tickets are on sale now at nwacsports.org