Reighard's Game-Winner Lifts Spokane 72-71 Over Lane in NWAC Men's Basketball Championship Opening Game

PASCO, Wash. - Zack Reighard scored the go-ahead layup with 3.6 seconds to lead Spokane over Lane 72-71 in the opening game of the 2025 NWAC Men's Basketball Championship presented by Golf Universe on Friday at Columbia Basin College.

Spokane trailed by 10 points with 2:34 to play, going on an 11-0 run to end the game, capped by Reighard's game winning basket and a defensive stop as time expired. Lane led by as many as 14 points in the second half, but couldn't find a basket over the final stretch run as Spokane's press defense forced four turnovers in the final two and a half.

Grant Olsen led the Sasquatch with an impressive 23 points, shooting 9-for-14 from the field, including 2-for-3 from beyond the arc. Olsen also contributed 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Reighard scored 20 points to go with six steals and four rebounds. Nate Visentin made a significant impact on the boards, collecting 11 rebounds and scoring 14 points, while also blocking two shots.

The Titans featured standout performances from several key players. Ben Thornbrue was a dominant force, leading the team with 20 points, while also contributing 4 blocks and 2 steals. Silas Wright added 16 points, highlighted by 4 three-pointers, along with 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Brody Roth was effective from beyond the arc, making 3 three-pointers as part of his 9-point contribution and matched Wright with 7 rebounds.

In the first half, the Sasquatch trailed the Titans 42-37. Spokane committed ten turnovers against Lane's five, which contributed to Lane establishing an 11-point lead at one point. Lane connected on seven three pointers in the first half.

Spokane outscored Lane 35-29 in the second half to secure a narrow victory, overcoming a 14-point deficit with 8:17 to play. Spokane capitalized on Lane's turnovers, forcing 17 while committing only seven, and executed a strong defensive effort with 13 steals. Opportunities played a key role as Spokane took 36 shots compared Lane's 22, thanks in part to their ability to force turnovers and pull down offensive rebounds with 18 for the game.

The Sasquatch advance to the NWAC Elite 8 and will play the winner of Skagit Valley and Highline on Saturday at 2 p.m.