Vikings Battle Back but Fall on the Road to Columbia Basin

Coming off back-to-back losses, Big Bend headed south to Pasco, Washington, to take on the Columbia Basin Hawks, looking to get back on track. The Vikings found themselves in an early hole, struggling offensively in the first half and going into the break trailing 31–18.

Big Bend showed improved energy and execution after halftime, finding its footing and going punch for punch with the Hawks in the second half. Both teams scored 37 points over the final 20 minutes, but the first-half deficit proved too much to overcome as BBCC ultimately fell 68–55.

Tainui Tairoa led the Vikings in scoring with 16 points, knocking down six of his 17 shot attempts. Dominik Wojna provided a strong all-around effort, contributing 13 points on an efficient 4-for-7 shooting night while also pulling down six rebounds in the loss.

Free-throw shooting continued to be a challenge for Big Bend, as the Vikings went 9-for-16 from the charity stripe. Overall, BBCC shot 33 percent from the floor, making it difficult to close the gap despite the improved second-half performance.

The Vikings will look to regroup quickly as they hit the road again this Wednesday to face the Yakima Valley Yaks. Tip-off is set for 5 p.m. as BBCC aims to snap the skid and turn things around.