Columbia Basin defeated Pierce in a low-scoring slugfest 46-40. Lexie Heath lead all scorers with 14 points despite foul trouble. Makenna Brandner and Kenzi Pedersen combined for 33 rebounds in defensive support.

With the tournament now residing on their home court, CBC was eager to come and get a win on opening day. The Hawk defense was spectacular on the night holding Pierce to just 5 points in the first frame. Nichols and Pedersen went to work early shooting a combined 6 of 9 in the period as Basin raced ahead by 10 early.

As the second quarter wore on, the Raider length gave CBC fits at time as the Hawks struggled to get the whistle to go their way. As the fouls began to mount for Heath and company, Pierce was able to find a way to tie it up at 30 all after 3 quarters.

Early in the 3rd period, Heath picked up her 4th foul of the night that sat her down for 7 minutes. The Hawks were able to survive the period still digging in defensively. In the 4th, Pierce was hit with a flagrant and a technical foul giving CBC some much needed free-throws to take what would be the final lead.

CBC held Pierce to just 11-61 shooting while Brandner snagged 16 rebounds to go with a huge late game block. Pedersen had a quiet but effective game scoring just 8 but posting a 17 rebound night as CBC was able to take care of the ball in the 4th and stay out of foul trouble.

The win moves them on to the Thursday quarterfinals where the South 3-seed Umpqua Riverhawks will be waiting for them. Tipoff is scheduled for 4pm.