Lakers Upset Walla Walla 93-68 with Impressive All-Around Performance

PASCO, Wash. - The Southwestern Oregon Lakers enjoyed a convincing upset of Walla Walla 93-68 in the 2025 NWAC Men's Basketball Championship Sweet 16 presented by Golf Universe on Saturday at Columbia Basin College.

The Lakers used a high-energy offense that shot 55.2 percent from the floor for the game on 67 total field goal attempts to down the No. 1 Warriors in another upset in the NWAC men's tournament. SW Oregon only ever trailed by as many as two points early in the first half before pulling away by halftime.

The Lakers showcased strong performances from several key players including Luke Fotheringham who emerged as a top scorer with 24 points, converting 11 of 19 field goal attempts, and contributing four total rebounds. Kam DuPaix delivered an impressive 19 points on 7-of-11 shooting, including four 3-pointers, while also grabbing seven rebounds and adding three assists. Colby Whicker added 17 points, going 6-for-10 from the field with four assists.

The Lakers started the first half strong, with DuPaix hitting a three-pointer at 19:09 to take an early lead. Fotheringham contributed significantly with multiple successful jumpers and a dunk, helping SWOCC build a 12-point lead just before halftime. The Warriors' efforts included a three-pointer by Drew Hottinger at 01:36 and consistent scoring from Luke Holecek.

SWOCC continued to pull away in the second half as they outscored the Warriors 46-32 to earn a 25-point victory. The Lakers made six three pointers in the second half. Overall, they outrebounded Walla Walla 38-25 including 9-4 on the offensive glass.

The Warriors were led offensively by Luke Holecek who had 14 points, but was limited in the first half due to drawing two fouls. Trey Arland led the team in rebounds with 11, adding eight points. Drew Hottinger had 14 points in just 19 minutes off the bench.

The Lakers advance onto the Elite 8 and take on West No. 3 seed Green River on Sunday at 4 p.m.