Tacoma Continues Dark Horse Run into Final 4 with 88-80 Win over Everett

PASCO, Wash. – The Tacoma Titans continued their thrilling run from No. 4 seed to Final 4, defeating the Everett Trojans 88-80 in the final Elite 8 game of the NWAC Men's Basketball Championship, presented by Golf Universe, on Friday at Columbia Basin College.

Earning a pair of upset victories in the Sweet 16, both Tacoma and Everett met up in the Elite 8 as the only No. 3 and 4 seeds left in the tourney. It was the Titans (24-9), however, that continued their hot streak to claim Friday's victory.

Much like their opening round game against Treasure Valley, the Titans jumped out to a huge lead to open the game, scoring the first 17 points. The Trojans impressively came nearly all the way back in just the first half, cutting the deficit to as few as two points with 1:08 to play in the opening 20. Tacoma took the momentum back in the second half, extending their lead back out to double-digits and not allowing Everett any closer than eight points.

The Titans continued their hot shooting streak with five players scoring in double-digits. Marc Eyman once again led the team with 18 points, making four three pointers. Chae Haynes had a big game with 17 points and 16 boards. Lareel Stewart had 16 points, six rebounds, six assists and four steals, while Myles Daymon added 16 points, four steals and four assists. Nic Ferencko also had 12 points for TCC.

Everett's entire starting five each scored double-digits led by 18 points and six rebounds from Ethan Martin. Derek Smith and Daniel Headdings each had 16 points, Jailin Johnson had 13 points and six assists while Raefe McEnroe had a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds.

The Titans return to the Final 4 for the first time since 2017 when they finished second place to Walla Walla. They will face No. 2 seed Skagit Valley in the semifinals next Saturday, March 16 at 2 p.m. at Columbia Basin College.